Work on a multi-million-pound civil engineering project to bolster flood protections on the Isle of Cumbrae is scheduled to commence on 26 January.

McFadden (Civils) Ltd has been awarded the contract to deliver the latest phase of the Mill Burn Flood Protection Scheme, which aims to safeguard homes and businesses in Millport.

The scope of works involves the construction of a 57-metre-long sea defence wall on West Bay Road, stretching from Cozy Corner to the western beach access ramp. A major component of the project is the installation of a 494-metre overflow culvert. This 900mm diameter pipeline is designed to divert high-flow water from the Mill Burn, discharging it through the new sea wall onto the beach to alleviate pressure on the existing network.

While initial plans suggested a full closure of West Bay Road, the Council has confirmed that the route will remain open to single-lane traffic for the majority of the build. Full closures will be restricted to short-term windows required for significant crane-lifting operations.

-- Advertisement --

Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, commented: "It is good news that the anticipated closure of West Bay Road is not necessary. Keeping the road open as a single lane for vehicles – rather than closing it entirely - will help traffic flow around the island and allow islanders and visitors to get from A to B during the duration of construction. Access for wheelers, walkers and cyclists will be maintained throughout the construction period and – where possible – short-term closures of West Bay Road will be off-season."

The £3.68 million project is being funded through a partnership between the Scottish Government, which is contributing 80% of the costs, and the local Council. The construction timeline was influenced by public consultation held last year, with residents expressing a preference for a winter start to reduce impact on the local community.

McFadden (Civils) Ltd is hosting a public drop-in session at Garrison House in Millport on Wednesday, 21 January, from 11am to 5pm. The event provides an opportunity for interested parties to review the technical plans and discuss the project with the site team.

Barring weather-related delays, the sea wall and culvert works are expected to be finished by the end of June 2026.