The Great Harbour is a key component of the £251m Ayrshire Growth Deal and is one of the most ambitious and transformational regeneration tourism proposals for the region. 

The business case for the Coastal Hub element of the ‘Great Harbour’ plans has been agreed. The works will include the development of a themed regional playpark, skatepark, repairs to the Pilot House building and new landscaped park setting that reflects the coastal location, improved cycle paths and active travel connections and the re-lining of the Beach Drive car park to increase capacity.

Contractor McLaughlin Construction will carry out the works and are due to start in January.

North Ayrshire Council is also hoping to secure additional funding to allow for the development of a pump track.

A naming competition for the play park was held with local schools, youth groups, and clubs and an event to announce the winning name is planned in the spring.

Following the first phase, work will begin on the second phase of the project. The Maritime Mile, including Marine & Arts Hub which will feature a new waterfront space helping to support events, improved access to marine facilities, and the redevelopment of the Harbour Master’s Office.

The third phase aims to create a Maritime Heritage Hub. This will see the council work in partnership with the Scottish Maritime Museum and Crown Estate Scotland to enhance and expand existing facilities around the Harbourside, including the Puffers Café area. It is hoped that this will increase visitors and encourage increased participation in maritime heritage in the area.

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 at 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.