It is good to see that the existing replica of the famous SV Comet was successfully lifted from its current position on Sunday and transferred to Ferguson's shipyard. Elements of this replica will be used in the refitting of a new model of the Comet, which will be undertaken as an employment and training project.
The project is a partnership between the Council, Inverclyde Community Development Trust and Ferguson Shipbuilders. Nine local people, who have been receiving training up till now, will be employed through the project, six of them through the new Future Jobs Fund.
It is fitting that the replica will be refitted at Fergusons, as the yard sits on the site of the yard where John Wood’s original Comet was built in 1812.
As part of the project, local schools will be involved in an arts programme to “fill the gap” left by the replica, and will also have the opportunity to get involved in heritage research projects. The whole project will also be filmed from start to finish. This project, which is anticipated to take 9 months to complete, will breathe life back into the historically significant boat, making it a potential focal point for bicentennial celebrations in 2012 and a viable attraction during The Tall Ships 2011.
As a Port Glasgow Councillor I am delighted that the Council is promoting the rebuilding of this important symbol of the Town's shipbuilding heritage and at the same time supporting our one remaining shipyard and providing training and employment opportunities for local people.
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