Still a Cut above after 30 years
INVERCLYDE’S famous Greenock Cut Visitor Centre is celebrating its 30th anniversary and proving it is still a ‘Cut’ above.
This weekend will mark three decades since the popular attraction within Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park first re-opened on 8 December 1994.
The original visitor centre dates to the 1970s but following a devastating fire in 1992 it was completely rebuilt and the current building opened two years later.
Three decades on, the visitor centre is as popular as ever with people of all ages, including thousands of school children who take part in various activities with the help of the park rangers.
Originally known as Cornalees and still called that to this day by many locals, the centre was renamed Greenock Cut Visitor Centre in 2010 to better reflect its location at the head of the Greenock Cut aqueduct.
It is one of two Inverclyde council managed sites, along with Lunderston Bay, that make up part of the greater Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.
Inverclyde Council took over direct responsibility for these two locations in 2021 and has invested over £540,000 across them to improve the visitor experience, including significant improvement works to the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre.
Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, said: “For generations, people have been enjoying walks and days out up The Cut, or Cornalees as many still know it as, and it is held in such high regard by visitors from near and far.
“We recognise the importance of Greenock Cut Visitor Centre and Lunderston Bay as key Inverclyde attractions and that’s why we’ve invested so much in the facilities in the past three years to improve the experience for everyone.
“The rangers also do a fantastic job maintaining and championing both Cornalees and Lunderston Bay and welcome thousands of school children along each year on top of the thousands more who visit for walks or to enjoy nature-themed events and activities, such as wreath-making at this time of year.
“That’s why 30 years on from when the current centre opened, Cornalees is still a Cut above and going strong and here’s to many more successful years to come.”
Nestled within the stunning northern bounds of Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre serves as an inviting gateway into Inverclyde’s rural beauty and rich historical heritage.
Located just a few miles south of Greenock, the visitor centre is an essential stop for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to explore the scenic landscapes of Inverclyde.
The original was a wooden-framed centre called the Cornalees Bridge Centre, which was first built in the 1970s.
Unfortunately, in 1992 the centre was devastated by fire.
This did not deter the rangers who for the next few years worked from portacabins, continuing their work of promoting outdoor access and education until finally rising from the ashes a new centre was constructed and officially reopened on 8 December 1994.
The rangers continue to provide outdoor education for thousands of school children, give walks and talks to the public, organise family events focused on nature conservation, undertake national wildlife surveys, promote local history and traditional outdoor skills.
In 2021, changes to the parks management meant that Inverclyde Council took direct control of the centre and its staff and have spent the last three years giving the centre a makeover recognising its status as a ‘jewel in the crown’ of Inverclyde.
The visitor centre features informative displays, interactive exhibits, knowledgeable staff ready to guide visitors through the park’s many offerings.
It is also surrounded by numerous walking and cycling trails, catering to all fitness levels.
The Greenock Cut trail is a well-maintained path that runs alongside the historic aqueduct, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and Clyde valley.
Mike Holcombe, senior park ranger, said: “Whether you’re interested in hiking, history, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, the Greenock Cut Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination in Inverclyde.
“With its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, we hope to continue enriching the experience for visitors local and those from further afield for many more years to come.”
For more information about Greenock Cut Visitor Centre and Lunderston Bay, including events and activities, visit www.discoverinverclyde.com and check out the Discover Inverclyde and Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park social media channels for updates.
