Irvine is in the running to be named Scotland’s Most Improved Town after being shortlisted for a national award.

The nomination recognises the dramatic, ongoing regeneration taking place in the town and the spin-off benefits it brings to residents.

Irvine has been selected as a finalist - alongside Middlefield in Aberdeen and Shawlands in Glasgow – for the title of Scotland’s Most Improved Place in the Scottish Urban Regeneration Forum (SURF) Awards.

Judges visited Irvine on Tuesday where they were given a guided tour. They visited the recently opened Fullarton Community hub, and Quarry Road to see the location for the additional sport and leisure facilities that are under development.

The judges were also told of the ongoing proposals to improve the public realm in Irvine town centre, complementing the work carried out at Bridgegate, as well as the residential developments and ambitious plans for the i3 Irvine, Innovation and Industry Park.

And their visit was rounded off with a tour of the Portal leisure centre and refurbished Townhouse.

Councillor Alex Gallagher, Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “We are thrilled that the tremendous work being delivered in Irvine has been recognised at a national level.

“To be shortlisted in these prestigious awards is testament to the commitment shown by the council, our partners and the local community to create a vibrant and sustainable future for the town.

“However, this is about more than buildings – it’s about the people that we serve and how the regeneration of Irvine affects them.”

Irvine was nominated for the title of Scotland’s Most Improved Large Town in 2015 but was named runner-up to Kilmarnock.