Talks have begun over plans to set up a major construction-training academy in Inverclyde.

Carillion has been involved in discussions with leading Inverclyde businessmen over plans to set up one of Scotland's first construction colleges in the area. The company has several training colleges in England, which have provided young people with vital apprenticeships and a secure future in the industry.

If the plans are put into place, it is hoped around forty 16 and 18-year-olds could be trained every year on two-year placements.

Inverclyde is thought to be the ideal location for the academy, due to an expected regeneration boom and the area's need for diverse training and skills.

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So far, Scottish Enterprise has been mentioned as a possible source of funding. The plans were discussed by councillors and Inverclyde Council officials at a meeting in Greenock's Tontine Hotel.

Councillor Ronnie Ahlfeld said: "I see great possibilities for an organisation of this sort. For a long time, craft apprenticeships have been lacking in Inverclyde so if it's possible for everyone to come together and get a satisfactory outcome in Inverclyde, it would be positive.

"Carillion see fantastic potential in Inverclyde. It wouldn't just be multinationals that could take the youngsters on, it would be local small-to-medium enterprises. There is enthusiasm to try to get this established. Whether we could utilise something existing as a training academy, or build something new, is still open for negotiations."

Timescales have not yet been worked out, but Councillor Ahlfeld said the academy could be set up within three years.

(NS/JM)