The future of Irvine Bay Regeneration Company is more secure following a high level meeting between local politicians and the Scottish Government on Wednesday.

Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex Neil MSP has pledged that the Scottish Government will continue to work with North Ayrshire Council and Irvine Bay Regeneration Company in the medium to long term.

The Minister has asked Irvine Bay to produce a business plan for the next four to five years focusing on key projects and developments. Meanwhile, the Minister will secure core funding for the regeneration company over that period.

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Wednesday’s meeting with Mr Neil was attended by North Ayrshire Council Leader David O’Neill, Councillor Matthew Brown, Chief Executive Elma Murray, and Irvine Bay Chief Executive Patrick Wiggins and Chair Evelyn McCann along with local MSPs Kenneth Gibson and Margaret Burgess.

Councillor O’Neill said: “We had a very positive meeting and are delighted that the Scottish Government has committed to continued support of regeneration in Irvine Bay.

“We are happy that they recognise the efforts to breathe much-needed new life into the area, and grateful for the support of Mr Neil.

“This outcome proves how effective local partnership working can be, with representatives from across the political spectrum and all tiers of government pulling together for the good of North Ayrshire and its people.”

Patrick Wiggins, Irvine Bay Chief Executive said: “We are grateful to the Scottish Government for their continued support. The fact the Cabinet Secretary Alex Neil has made a number of visits to view the work being done by Irvine Bay has undoubtedly helped him gain a first-hand view of the value of the work that is being carried out.”

(GK)