IRVINE’S controversial new leisure centre is facing further delays.

Ministers at the Scottish Parliament are currently considering a report on the legality of shutting a historic road and footpath adjacent to the current construction site in the town centre.

Jail Close was issued with a stopping up order by North Ayrshire Council who wanted to close the path for good in order to build the multi-million pound leisure centre - designed to replace the Magnum Leisure Centre.

However, after Save the Magnum campaigners lodged objections about the closure last year, construction was brought to a standstill and a Scottish Government inquiry was launched.

Campaigners went head-to-head with council chiefs in June at the Volunteer Rooms where Scottish Government Reporter Frances McChlery heard evidence from both sides.

The campaigners argued that the path is a right of way and should remain open regardless of NAC’s plans to build the new leisure centre.

However, council officials revealed that alterations would be made to the space currently occupied by Jail Close to make way for disabled access to the new centre.

But campaigners disputed this, claiming that the public weren’t made aware of these plans.

Now, the fate of Jail Close is in the hands of ministers but a final decision is yet to be made.

An exact date on the decision has not been revealed, meaning that the longer the wait on the outcome then the longer it will take to re-start construction.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The Reporter appointed to determine the case issued a report to Ministers on September 11 with recommendations.

“Officials are currently considering the report and endeavour to issue Scottish Ministers decision as soon as possible.” As the Times went to press, a spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council was unavailable for comment.