Greenock Council Seeks Migrants to Counter Decades of Population Decline

Greenock, a Scottish town, is proactively seeking to attract migrants to reverse a sustained population decline. The Inverclyde local authority, which includes Greenock, has seen its population fall from approximately 106,000 in the 1960s to around 70,000 today. This demographic shift has resulted in a surplus of housing, a shrinking working-age population, and economic stagnation.

Councillor Stephen McCabe, leader of Inverclyde Council, stated that the area needs to attract at least 1,000 new residents annually to stabilise its population. The council is focused on creating a welcoming environment, providing support with housing, employment, and community integration to encourage new arrivals to settle permanently.

The strategy highlights the economic imperative for population growth, aiming to fill labour shortages and stimulate local businesses. This approach contrasts with the broader UK government's restrictive immigration policies, demonstrating a local authority prioritising demographic replenishment to ensure its future viability.