Work is set to begin in January 2025 on a £14 million regeneration project for the Harbourside area of Irvine. This ambitious project is part of the £251 million Ayrshire Growth Deal and aims to transform the coastal area into a vibrant destination.

The first phase of the project, known as the Coastal Hub, will include the development of a themed regional playpark, a skatepark, and improvements to the Pilot House building and surrounding parkland. Additionally, cycle paths and active travel connections will be enhanced, and the Beach Drive car park will be re-lined to increase capacity.

Local construction firm McLaughlin Construction has been awarded the contract to carry out the work.

Following the completion of the Coastal Hub, the project will move on to the second phase, the Maritime Mile, which will focus on creating a new waterfront space and redeveloping the Harbour Master's Office.

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The final phase, the Maritime Heritage Hub, will involve a partnership with the Scottish Maritime Museum and Crown Estate Scotland to enhance existing facilities and promote maritime heritage.

Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, said: "This is an important milestone for this Ayrshire Growth Deal project and we are looking forward to work commencing on the Coastal Hub.

"We have engaged extensively with local residents, businesses and stakeholders and we're sure they will be looking forward to work starting and projects coming to fruition.

"We will continue to provide updates as the work continues and are sure the new playpark and other enhancements to the area will be well received."

Paul McLaughlin, Director, McLaughlin Construction, added: "As a local SME that has operated from a base in North Ayrshire for almost 80 years, comprised of people throughout our business who live and have grown up in the communities that will be directly impacted, we're thrilled to be involved in this transformational project, and excited by the opportunity to increase local employment and engage our well-established, local supply chain.

"Almost literally on our doorstep, Irvine beach front has incredible potential, and we look forward to unlocking more of that by improving access and facilities with this, the first phase of the Great Harbour project."

The funding for the Great Harbour project comprises of £9m from Scottish Government and £5m from North Ayrshire Council.