New wall panels at Gourock train station celebrate the beauty of Inverclyde
A 105 metre-long colourful mural showcasing the best of Inverclyde has been unveiled at Gourock train station.
Inverclyde Council worked with various partners and members of the public to bring the vision for the mural to life and brighten up the station wall. The finished artwork, a series of digitally designed panels, aims to showcase the local area to walkers, wheelers and cyclists - some of whom will be visitors to the area and will be interested in finding out more and exploring it further.
The £10,000 project has been funded by the Scottish Government via active travel organisation Sustrans and was delivered in partnership by Inverclyde Council and Sustrans Scotland's Network Development programme.
Through Inverclyde Council’s Discover Inverclyde tourism channels, people were invited to share what they love about Gourock in particular, and Inverclyde as a whole.
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Lots of positive comments and photos were received with common themes highlighting Gourock’s independent shops and cafés, as well as Inverclyde’s stunning scenery, history and beautiful natural assets.
Photographs from across the area were used, including one of the Shipbuilders of Port Glasgow sculptures contributed by SJPhotography, alongside quotes gathered from the public consultation.
Councillor Michael McCormick, convener of Inverclyde Council’s Environment and Regeneration committee said: “This is a fantastic asset for Inverclyde and is an inviting welcome to both rail passengers and walkers, cyclists and wheelers using the new active travel route through the station.
“Everyone who lives in Inverclyde is well aware of the outstanding scenery, history, parks and people we have here. From beautiful hills and countryside, art and culture, a deep and proud history, to breathtaking sea views, Inverclyde truly does have it all.
“I hope visitors to Inverclyde take the time to enjoy this piece of public art and get out there and discover everything the area has to offer.”
Carole Patrick, UK National Cycle Network Director at Sustrans, said: "We are thrilled to celebrate the unveiling of these new designs at Gourock station. Since last year's opening of the path connecting the National Cycle Network Route 75 through the station, locals and visitors to Inverclyde are benefitting from healthier, happier and more sustainable travel choices.
"The series of design panels adds a valuable sense of the local culture, nature and history to the NCN 75 route. We hope this will inspire more people to explore Inverclyde by walking, wheeling and cycling."
Matthew Spence, Director of Strategy and Investment at Network Rail, said: "Wherever you are, Scotland's railway is your link to live, learn, work, and explore. With the town’s rich history and contemporary culture, we're delighted that Gourock rail station will be at the heart of showcasing the very best of what Inverclyde has to offer, inspiring a new generation of visitors to the area."
David Ross, ScotRail Communications Director, said: “We’re proud to support projects like this which celebrate local communities, and make our stations more welcoming for customers.
"Gourock station is a gateway to Inverclyde, and this vibrant mural not only enhances the station environment but also reflects the pride people have in the area. We hope it encourages more people to take the train and explore everything Inverclyde has to offer