A RESTRICTED Irvine road closed to motorists since the 1980s won’t be re-opening anytime soon.

It’s been revealed that re-opening Station Brae to the public could cost almost £50,000 - a cost North Ayrshire Council is unwilling to incur.

Back in July, calls were made by Irvine East Councillor John Easdale to consider the proposal following positive discussions with bus firm Stagecoach

But the plans have been knocked back for the time being due to budget constraints and safety fears. from nearby residents.

The closure means Bourtreehill and Broomlands drivers have to take a trip of three miles each way to get to Dreghorn.

Plans were drawn up by roads chiefs to re-open the road with traffic calming measures - in a bid to put the minds of concerned residents at ease.

But North Ayrshire Council say there is not enough money in the budget to make the alterations.

In an email to the Times, Councillor Easdale said: “Our Roads Department have looked at this proposal and have produced a possible plan to open up the road for use by all classes of vehicles, prior to starting consultations and applying for a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) to revoke the service bus only status.

“A number of residents within this area have safety concerns, regarding this proposal and in order to allay these concerns, it was agreed that if such an alteration were to proceed, traffic calming measures should be introduced in Station Brae.

“These measures will consist of constructing four sets of road nibs at pedestrian and cycle crossing points, together with the removal of an existing set of nibs. Road drainage, traffic signs and road marking’s would also require to be amended to compliment these alterations.”

He added: “The estimated cost to carry out these works would be in the region of £49,000. However, finance is not available within this financial years budget to carry out this work.”

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “Following a number of safety concerns raised by local residents, it was agreed that if these proposals were to proceed, traffic calming measures should be introduced at Station Brae. 

"Finance is not available within this financial year, however the proposals will remain on our database for future consideration.”