# Demographic decline in Greenock and Inverclyde > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/demographic-decline-in-greenock-and-inverclyde > Updated: 2026-08-26T10:03:21.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. The town of Greenock and the wider Inverclyde region in Scotland are experiencing significant population decline. Since 1981, the population has decreased by 22,000 residents, and current projections suggest a further 16% drop over the next twenty years. To address these demographic challenges, local authorities are implementing strategies to attract migrants and refugees to settle permanently in the area. This shift is reflected in the local economy through the emergence of new businesses, such as the Anik African Store, which caters to a growing community of African residents. Despite these efforts, economic stability remains a concern. The region has faced major industrial losses, including the closure of an IBM complex in 2016 and more recent job losses at companies such as Amazon, EE, and a local shipyard. Local stakeholders note that job availability continues to be the primary factor for sustained migration and regional stability. Recent observations indicate that the lack of local employment opportunities is forcing many newcomers to work or study in nearby Glasgow or Paisley. Addressing this shortage of jobs is considered essential to making the region a viable long-term destination for new residents. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-26: Greenock seeks migrants to combat population decline Greenock and the Inverclyde region in Scotland are implementing plans to attract migrants to combat severe long-term population decline and economic stagnation. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greenock-seeks-migrants-to-combat-population-decline-1 ### 2026-08-21: Greenock seeks to combat depopulation by attracting migrants Greenock, Scotland, is attempting to combat severe depopulation and industrial decline by attracting migrants and refugees to settle in the Inverclyde area. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/greenock-seeks-to-combat-depopulation-by-attracting-migrants --- Cite as: Demographic decline in Greenock and Inverclyde. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/demographic-decline-in-greenock-and-inverclyde