Skills Development Scotland Expands Services with Strategic Move to Enhance Community Access

A vital careers service is set to expand its offerings as it prepares to relocate its town centre base. Skills Development Scotland (SDS) has confirmed they will be moving from their 112 West Blackhall Street location in Greenock in January 2026. The premises have recently been listed for let as offices or for retail use, offering 1,500 to 3,240 square feet of space.

While the agency has not yet identified a new home, they have assured that there will be no detriment to customers throughout the transition. SDS, which provides free careers advice and guidance in secondary schools and for people of all ages, is finalizing the details of the move.

The new location will be complemented by options for residents to access services in community venues, driven by customer demand. Importantly, there will be no change in the number of staff employed locally.

Sharon Kelly, SDS head of operations west, emphasized: "Our professionally qualified careers advisers provide a vital service to people in Greenock and across Inverclyde. The aim of this change is to make our services more accessible to more people. It also supports our ambition to work more closely with partners to make a lasting difference in the community."

Customers and partners will receive updates in the coming weeks. In the meantime, services continue as usual at the West Blackhall Street centre, with appointments available by calling 01475 553710.

In addition to core services, Skills Development Scotland collaborates with Inverclyde Council and the Department of Work and Pensions to organize local jobs fairs. The most recent event, held earlier this month, attracted hundreds of participants to Greenock Town Hall, featuring around 25 employers and 15 training organizations.