A webcam system sharing a view from the top of Victoria Tower in Greenock has been upgraded – providing “crystal clear” views of Inverclyde and beyond.
For more than a decade, the technology located at the summit of the 245-foot landmark has beamed live images of the town and wider local authority area.
However, the device had reached the end of its lifespan and has been replaced by two ultra-high definition 4K cameras, at a cost of approximately £2,600. The project was funded by the Greenock Town Centre Regeneration Forum.
Councillor Jim Clocherty, chair of the forum and vice convener of Inverclyde Council’s environment and regeneration committee, said: “I’m always taken aback at how popular the Victoria Tower webcam is in terms of page views and it’s a fantastic way to showcase the beauty of the area to people around the world and encourage them to discover what Inverclyde has to offer.
“For a relatively modest amount of money, the new cameras provide crystal clear views of Inverclyde and beyond to the east and also the west for the first time allowing people from near and far to enjoy our stunning scenery.
“There is, of course, nothing better than seeing Inverclyde in all its glory for yourself in person but the Victoria Tower webcams are the next best thing and I know the images bring joy to so many people at home and in every corner of the globe.”
According to the local authority, the webcam page is consistently the most viewed on its website, with more than one million views recorded in the past 12 months.
The original camera was installed in May 2013 as part of a tourism initiative and the £2,600 went towards replacement cameras, their installation and changes needed on the website to accommodate the enhanced views.
The upgrade took place during recent annual survey and maintenance work on Victoria Tower.
The old camera captured landmarks including the Custom House, Beacon Arts Centre, Victoria Harbour and beyond. The additional west-facing camera now takes in other parts of the town centre, Port of Greenock, Greenock Ocean Terminal and visiting container vessels and cruise ships.
To take in the views, visit www.inverclyde.gov.uk/tourism-and-visitor-attractions/victoria-tower-webcam
