Work on the much anticipated landside facilities for Girvan and South Carrick gets underway this week.

Scheduled for completion by summer, the development by 3b Construction builds on the success of the marina’s pontoons, installed in 2013, which have already been a welcome boost for the town’s tourist potential as a sailing destination.

Representing an investment of just over £465,000, the new landside facilities will further enhance the marina, offering separate rest facilities for pontoon users and fishermen, public toilets and a modern harbourmaster’s office.

It comprises grant assistance of £132,000 from the Argyll & Bute and South Ayrshire Fisheries Local Action Group (this project is being part-financed by Axis 4 of the European Fisheries Fund 2007-2013 Programme) with the balance from South Ayrshire Council.

Welcoming the start of works, Councillor Bill Grant, portfolio holder for economic development, tourism and leisure, said: “This is brilliant news for Girvan and marks another significant step towards making the harbour area a first-class leisure and tourism hotspot.

“Working in partnership with the Ayrshire Roads Alliance, this investment reflects our on-going commitment to support Girvan’s fishing fleet, to promote the town as a port of call for visiting sailors and to help transform the harbour into an attractive area for local residents and visitors.

Michael McBrearty chief executive of Hub South West Scotland Limited, who are managing the delivery of the project, said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with South Ayrshire Council delivering improved local facilities for Girvan.

“This project fully supports our commitment to engage local businesses, demonstrated by our partnership with3B Construction Limited who are committed to supporting sustainable employment in the local area.”

Councillor Grant added: “We’re determined to keep on making waves in Girvan and I look forward his important development being completed in time for the summer sailing season.”