Work is currently scheduled to get under way in late summer with building work expected to be completed in spring 2022.  

The Upper Garnock Valley Flood Protection Scheme aims to reduce the flood risk to properties in Kilbirnie, Glengarnock and Dalry from the River Garnock, Powgree Burn and Rye Water.

The area has a history of local flood events, most notably the significant Kilbirnie flooding event in 2008. 

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, cabinet member for green new deal & sustainability at North Ayrshire Council, said: “We are delighted that we are reaching a stage where we will see work start on a project which will have long-lasting and far-reaching benefits for the Garnock Valley.

“I hope that once complete, the flood protection scheme will offer local residents and businesses peace of mind and security.”

Environment and climate change secretary Roseanna Cunningham said: “COVID-19 is an unprecedented global crisis which has fundamentally affected every aspect of our lives. However, as we deal with its impact, climate change has not gone away and must now form a central part of our recovery from this difficult time. Supporting major capital works such as the Upper Garnock Valley Flood Protection Scheme is tangible evidence of the Scottish Government’s commitment to climate change adaptation, and to driving Scotland’s green recovery from the pandemic.

“We all know that flooding can have a devastating impact on homes, business and communities which is why I am pleased that progress is being made on the Upper Garnock Valley scheme, with a contractor now chosen to deliver it. I am also pleased that the Scottish Government could contribute £14m to support the project, from a commitment of £42m a year to help support important projects like this to protect those communities most at risk of flooding.”

Seamus Devlin, civil engineering director at McLaughlin & Harvey, added: “McLaughlin & Harvey is delighted to have been selected by North Ayrshire Council to deliver the Upper Garnock Flood Protection Scheme. We bring the experience from our ever-expanding expertise in the flood protection sector, and look forward to commencing works in the near future.”

The award of the tender contract will also bring community benefits in line with North Ayrshire Council’s recently-approved Community Wealth Building Strategy. For this project, the contractor has committed to create new employment opportunities (typically for apprentices and/or unemployed individuals) equivalent to 10 full-time positions for the duration of the contract. It will also work with local companies and third sector organisations to maximise any sub-contractor opportunities, amongst other commitments.