TS Queen Mary will bring an economic boost to Govan

Earlier this month The Princess Royal revealed the much-loved steamer – which last carried passengers in 1977 – would sail once again as early as 2024.

It will bring an economic boost to Clyde coastal communities like Rothesay, Dunoon and Largs as it recreates the golden age of Clyde cruising.

Now Govan’s three housing associations and the charity tasked with its restoration, Friends of TS Queen Mary, have predicted Govan – where the ship has its home at Pacific Quay – will also be a big winner.

Tourists are expected to flock to Govan as they board TS Queen Mary, sparking a mini economic boom for shops and businesses - particularly around Govan Cross.

Friends of TS Queen Mary said the ship’s Govan connection was “every bit as important” as the coastal destinations of Rothesay, Dunoon and Campbeltown so familiar with this much-loved ship.

Ian Sim, Chairman of TS Friends of Queen Mary, said: “Govan is undergoing a multi-million regeneration with new homes and shops particularly around Govan Cross.

"A new bridge linking the community with Partick is also to be built. Undoubtedly, passengers will pass through Govan en route to boarding TS Queen Mary providing a welcome economic uplift for local businesses.

“The news that TS Queen Mary will sail once again is great news for Govan and we are proud to be playing a key role in the regeneration of this most important of Glasgow communities – particularly given Govan’s proud maritime heritage.”

Linthouse, Govan and Elderpark Housing Associations are at the heart of a multi-million housing and economic revival of the community which an unrivalled shipbuilding and maritime heritage.

Govan is being transformed by new housing and shops – notably a £17 million development at Govan Cross creating a new streetscape and waterfront homes.

Irene C McFarlane, Chief Executive of Linthouse Housing Association said: “This is welcome news indeed.

"We applaud the efforts of so many to ensure this iconic steamer – much loved by generations of Scots - will return to her former role.

"It will have a hugely beneficial effect on the economy of Govan and we look forward to the day when TS Queen Mary sets sail once again.”

The community’s economic revival is backed by Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government and the housing associations themselves.

A number of celebrities also have pledged their support, including actor and author Robbie Coltrane OBE, who is Patron of the charity.

Fiona McTaggart, Chief Executive of Govan Housing Association, said; “We welcome wholeheartedly the news that TS Queen Mary will have a new lease of life – back where she belongs sailing the Clyde. It is a fantastic shot in the arm for the regeneration of Govan."

Gary Dalziel, Chief Executive of Elderpark Housing, added: “Many local people have seen the ship berthed at Pacific Quay and they will no doubt have wondered if she might one day sail again. "Now they we know she will, it is welcome news for the local economy of Govan.”