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Greenock's West Blackhall Street has fully reopened following a £6 million renovation project aimed at improving walking, wheeling, and cycling access. The extensive modernisation project, led by Inverclyde Council and funded through Transport Scotland, Sustrans' Places for Everyone programme, and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), has transformed the town's traditional high street.
The project focused on creating a more vibrant and accessible area for residents, shoppers, visitors, and businesses. Key improvements include increased pedestrian and cyclist space, new public realm areas with additional seating and trees, and a simplified one-way road system. The redevelopment, which began in January 2024 and concluded in February 2025, was carried out in two phases.
The plans for West Blackhall Street were developed following consultations with the public, residents, traders, and partners, aligning with the Greenock Town Centre masterplan. The aim is to promote the street as a safe, accessible, and attractive destination, supporting future uses such as café culture and the night-time economy.
The road layout has been simplified with a single one-way system from Westburn Street to Grey Place, streamlining vehicle access and parking. The project also aims to 'future proof' the area, ensuring compatibility with sustainable transport and zero-carbon targets by prioritising pedestrian access.
Complementing these works, a £305,000 project to upgrade the National Cycle Network Route 75, connecting West Blackhall Street to Greenock Esplanade, and improve the Patrick Street junction is nearing completion. Funded by the Scottish Government and delivered in partnership by Inverclyde Council and Sustrans Scotland's Network Development programme, this project will enhance connectivity between the revamped high street and the waterfront.
The upgraded junctions at Patrick Street and Campbell Street, along with improvements to 1.8km of the Esplanade, will facilitate safe and easy walking, wheeling, and cycling between the town centre and the waterfront.
