Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of flooding across Scotland.

The Millport Flood Protection Scheme – which work started on last spring – will help improve the safety and security of the island’s residents against increased coastal flooding threats.

The completed offshore works include:

• The installation of an offshore rock armour breakwater, which has created a calm area of water. This part of the works is essential to allow a proposed marina - which is an Ayrshire Growth Deal project - to be constructed in the future
• Foreshore rockworks at Clyde Street and at Crichton Street/Clyde Street and
• The creation of concrete revetments - slopes that absorb wave energy to help reduce coastal erosion - at Kelburn Street, Millburn Street and Clyde Street on Cumbrae.

Thomas Reaney, North Ayrshire Council’s head of service for neighbourhood services, said: “It is encouraging to see this project being delivered so effectively with our partners.

“Schemes like these reduce the chances of flooding and coastal erosion while protecting communities.”

Onshore works around Glasgow Street are progressing well and include plans for: new benches being put in place; kerbing; surfacing works; jetty repairs – including the jetty near the famous Crocodile Rock; promenade wall repairs and repainting.

The main contractor for the flood protection work in Millport is Van Oord UK Ltd, with support from subsidiary Mackley Civil Engineering.

This project is being managed on behalf of the council by professional services business Turner & Townsend, with support from the principal designer Royal Haskoning DHV.

The offshore elements were completed in February, within the predicted planning scope, and mark a major milestone in enhancing the overall resilience of the island. Significant progress is also being made with the onshore works.

The Scottish Government is contributing 80% towards the overall costs of the scheme, with the council meeting the rest.