THE first phase of the ambitious plans to transform Quarry Road is now underway.

Provost Ian Clarkson was joined by construction partners Clark Contracts for a ground-breaking ceremony at the town centre site on Friday.

The £3 million development will see state-of-the-art office space and a Business Gateway Centre, comprising meeting rooms and incubator office space created.

This first phase will also create road and path access to the site, parking and landscaping.

It will facilitate the growth of the Irvine Gymnastics Club and allow for future expansion of the office facility should this be required.

The first phase development is expected to create an additional 19 FTE jobs and 90 construction jobs.

The overall project for Quarry Road is part of the Council’s vision for Irvine town centre and NAC say it will build on the positive momentum seen in the delivery of projects such as The Portal, Bridgegate House and Public Realm, and Trinity Church.

Proposals for a second phase continue to be developed through feasibility work which has involved extensive consultation with sports clubs, national agencies and potential funding partners.

Provost Ian Clarkson said: “This is another major step forward in the ongoing regeneration of Irvine’s town centre. We’re delighted to be here today to mark the start of work at this exciting development.”

Councillor Alex Gallagher, cabinet member for economy, added: “The regeneration of Irvine’s town centre, including this site, was seen as the key priority when we consulted with the public on the way to producing our Irvine Vision.

“A lot of fantastic work has already been undertaken and, of course, the Portal is now open and proving hugely popular.

“The development at Quarry Road is another step in creating business and leisure opportunities. We are delighted that work has started on Phase One.”

Clark Contracts Director, Michael Scanlan added: “We are excited to be working with North Ayrshire Council on the first stage of this regeneration which will provide improved facilities for businesses and the community.”

The council are receiving £965,000 from the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Fund and £400,000 from Scottish Government Vacant and Derelict Land Funding for the project.