A new coastal masterplan has identified the Firth of Clyde as a potential economic opportunity for North Ayrshire.

According to a report prepared for the National Marine Plan, the future investment in the area will be centred on the seas around the area, as well as on the land.

North Ayrshire Council has put forward various options for developing marine tourism and employment in a response to a consultation exercise by the Scottish Government. Local authorities were asked for their views on the plan, which has been produced by Marine Scotland - a new national organisation responsible for promoting the seas through a series of regional strategies.

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One of the objectives is to ensure that any new shoreline development takes into account the visuals attached to both the land and sea.

The local authority in North Ayrshire has asked that the plan takes into account a suggestion to establish an energy hub at the deep sea port of Hunterston. The site is believed to have the potential for energy-related uses such as the manufacture and assembly of equipment for offshore renewables and the decommissioning of oil and gas platforms.

Another proposal was for Arran's south coast to be recognised as a Marine Protected Area. This designation would benefit the island and attract more visitors with the establishment of educational and research facilities and more tourist attractions based on water-based recreation.

Councillor John Bruce, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: "It is important that we participate fully in the consultation so that our interests are properly considered in the context of the new marine planning regime."

(JP/IT)