Greenock seeks migrants to combat population decline

The town of Greenock and the wider Inverclyde region in western Scotland are facing significant demographic challenges, with the population having decreased by 22,000 residents since 1981. Projections suggest the current population of 78,000 could decline by an additional 16% over the next two decades.

To combat this decline, the local council has developed a plan to attract new residents, including migrants and refugees. The area has seen a recent shift in demographics, evidenced by the opening of new businesses such as the Anik African Store, which serves the growing community of African residents and refugees in the area.

Local residents and business owners note that while the community is welcoming, job availability remains the primary barrier to sustained population growth. Many new arrivals currently work or study in nearby cities like Glasgow or Paisley due to the local lack of employment opportunities.