A landmark restoration project in Port Glasgow has successfully transformed the town's oldest building into a pioneering model of environmental sustainability.

The King George VI building, a Category B-listed structure dating back to the 1700s, has officially welcomed more than 2,600 visitors since its reopening as the Port Glasgow Community Hub in May 2025.

The £3.2 million renovation has seen the historic site achieve a rare A+ energy efficiency rating, surpassing net-zero emissions standards. This makes the 18th-century property the most modern and eco-friendly facility in Inverclyde. The project was financed through a £1.8 million grant from the Scottish Government, with Inverclyde Council contributing £1.4 million across various development phases.

Since reopening, the hub has hosted over 40 distinct groups, recording 2,606 visits between May and November 2025. Its diverse schedule includes:

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- Wellbeing initiatives and support services.

- Toddler groups and arts and crafts workshops.

- English classes for speakers of other languages (ESOL).

- Local research and community forum meetings.

The building originally served as a Masonic Hall for Lodge Cumberland Kilwinning No. 217 — which continues to use the facility today — and has previously functioned as a town hall and a school headmaster's residence.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council's convener of education and communities, highlighted the building's survival at a recent committee meeting: "The breadth of activities at the hub and range of groups using the facility highlights how versatile and inclusive the centre is, which is exactly the type of facility we want for the people of Port Glasgow and wider Inverclyde.

"The hub is helping to foster social connections, provide learning and development opportunities for residents, and promote inclusivity in the heart of the town centre.

"The building was very close to being resigned to the history books but thanks to the council, it has been rebuilt for the benefit of the people of Port Glasgow to continue making memories for many more years to come."

The hub also serves as a central meeting point for vital local organisations, including the Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum, the Food Strategy Group, and the Port Glasgow West Community Council.

The official reopening on 6 May 2025 coincided with the 250th anniversary of Port Glasgow's establishment as a burgh, marking a significant milestone in the town's heritage preservation.