A scheme to guarantee local training and job opportunities has been approved by councillors in Inverclyde.

The Construction Plus Partnership has already seen the company building the Riverside Business Centre recruit six local groundsmen, a heating engineer and a quantity surveyor.

The multi-million pound Inverclyde Schools Programme also has a requirement for the developers E4i to provide 15 apprenticeships, 33 general building operative posts plus a range of training and work experience opportunities for the local community over the next four years.

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Councillor Jim Clocherty, Convener of Inverclyde Council's Regeneration Committee said: "It is vital when awarding large contracts to construction companies that we maximise the opportunities for local people, particularly the young. We are fortunate in Inverclyde to have such a wide-ranging programme of building work underway and the ability to insist that communities and individuals should benefit."

To ensure an effective supply of suitable labour, Inverclyde Community Development trust was appointed as a single point of contact with the support of Fairer Scotland Funds and Inverclyde Council.

Key partners and providers include Jobcentre Plus, James Watt College, Construction Skills, Careers Scotland, Action for Children and Skills Development Scotland.

Councillor Clocherty added: "At a time when the global economy is in recession and the construction industry in general is under severe pressure it is vital that we minimise the effects of the recession as far as possible. Through Construction Plus and our partners we are in an extremely fortunate position."

(GK/JM)