Inverclyde Council announces £40,000 in celebrations for Port Glasgow's 250th birthday

A total of £40,000 will go towards developing a number of events to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Port Glasgow becoming a burgh.

The use of the monies from the common good fund was given the green light by Inverclyde Council’s policy and resources committee on Tuesday.

The local authority’s corporate communications team will now work in partnership with the community to both assist in coordinating events already planned and work on ideas for specific projects.

A report by Ruth Binks, corporate director for education, communities and organisational development, explained the background of the planned celebration.

It said: “In the late sixteenth century, the authorities in Glasgow purchased land by the village of Newark to establish a port for the city.

“In 1710 the principal custom-house on the River Clyde was constituted at the Port of Glasgow. The settlement around the port grew quickly and soon absorbed the fishing village of Newark.

“Newark was a burgh of barony belonging to Hamilton of Wishaw, while Port Glasgow remained under the municipal authority of the City of Glasgow.

“Recognising the complexities of this arrangement, an act of parliament was passed in 1775 establishing Port Glasgow as a burgh in its own right.

“The Port Glasgow (Improvement) Act 1775 defined the burgh’s municipal responsibilities and its authority to raise duty. The act was passed on May 22, 1775.

“2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Port Glasgow becoming a burgh and this event should be marked by the council.

“Local members have requested consideration of financial support to mark this significant milestone.

“The Port Glasgow Regeneration Forum is keen to promote and support this occasion.”

The proposal to allocate the funding to help organise events or projects linked to the anniversary received unanimous backing from committee members.

The council already provides in excess of £13,000 of financial support to the annual Comet Festival in Port Glasgow.