The 71-home development is being supported by the Scottish Government.

On completion, the site will provide 24 general needs homes, eight wheelchair liveable properties, 11 amenity bungalows and 28 properties within a sheltered housing complex.

It forms part of North Ayrshire Council’s vision to deliver 1,575 new homes.

Due for completion in autumn 2022, the development will deliver much-needed new council homes at the town’s harbourside.

The properties have been designed to include a mix of modern, affordable, energy-efficient housing on the vacant site opposite the old Magnum centre.

All new homes will benefit from sustainable features including dual zone heating controls, low energy LED lighting and solar photovoltaic panels placed on homes throughout the site to reduce fuel bills for tenants. The older people’s housing will include the latest assistive technology to help residents live independently in their own homes for longer.

Consultation with local residents and businesses has helped develop the plans, ensuring the development is sensitive to its unique coastal location.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, cabinet member for Green New Deal and sustainability, said: “We all recognise that there is a pressing need to build more social housing which is why we’re extremely proud of our ambitious housing building programme.

“But it’s not just about building houses – it’s also about making sure that we build them in places that people want to live.  

“This is a fantastic location and the harbourside housing development will be complemented by the exciting £14million plans to develop the Great Harbour at Irvine, through the Ayrshire Growth Deal.

“This is a long-term investment in Irvine harbourside which will hopefully unlock the area’s potential as a major tourist destination. With the right mix of public and private investment, Irvine harbourside can be a major waterfront destination with huge appeal to tourists. 

“We are extremely excited for the works to get underway, ready for residents to move in by autumn 2022.”