THE Big Idea could be just weeks away from a takeover.

North Ayrshire Council say they have plans to speak to potential investors for the new site within the next few weeks.

And the Times understands investors from China are among those looking at taking over the building.

Last month, the Chinese Consul General Pan Xinchun was given a tour of The Big Idea by Provost Joan Sturgeon and Councillor Marie Burns when he and a delegation visited North Ayrshire.

But the council insist no direct meetings have taken place thus far between NAC officials and Chinese investors.

The much-maligned building on the Ardeer Peninsula has lay vacant since it closed for good in 2003 - with most of the original exhibits still inside.

In April 2015, the Times told how NPL Estates - who own the Big Idea - insisted that a takeover deal was close.

The company remain tight-lipped over a year later but have refused to deny any reports of an impending takeover.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said they are hoping to reveal “firm proposals” for the site this year.

They said: “The council is in active discussions with NPL Estates regarding the regeneration of the Ardeer Peninsula and the Big Idea.

“Discussions and proposals are at an early stage but we are optimistic there will be firm proposals we can share later this year.

“The council and NPL Estates are exploring a variety of options and hope to speak to a number of potential investors over the coming weeks.”

Opened in 2000 as part of the Millenium Project, the £14million invention centre struggled to compete with Glasgow Science Centre and closed after three turgid years.

NPL Estates gained ownership of the site in 2007 and initially proposed plans to transform the Peninsula into a golf course and marina.

Many Irvine residents have yearned for the Big Idea to be re-introduced as a music venue.

But those hopes could be dashed with NPL’s masterplan for the site heavily featuring plans for a power station 

Documents from NPL’s 10-year plan show proposals for a green energy and wind power site.

It is unclear whether this is one of the main proposals for a takeover.

Alex Dornan, Projects Manager at NPL Estates said last year: “We absolutely believe there is a future for the site.”