A HISTORIC Irvine pub has moved one step closer to revival.

The King’s Arms, which closed in May, could be brought back to life with over £600,000 worth of investment after the High Street pub’s license was transferred.

It was agreed by North Ayrshire Council’s Licensing Board last Monday (June 22) to approve the transfer of premises licence to Matthew Dyson on behalf of the Red Star Pub Company Ltd, a subsidiary of Heineken.

Heineken own the building which was operated by the Scott family under the Scott Hotels Irvine Ltd company.

The pub was forced to close after failing in its bid to compete with the recently renovated Carrick and newly-opened Auld Brig as well as the alternative of cheap supermarket booze.

Around 30 members of staff lost their jobs which was announced within days of the Porthead Tavern in Townhead apparently closing its doors.

But a bright future could be on the horizon as the Licensing Board, headed by newly-elected chair Councillor Ian Clarkson, were convinced about Red Star’s proposals for the pub.

Speaking to the Times after the meeting, Cllr Clarkson said: "The Board decided it would be in the best interests of the future of the Kings to grant the transfer of the licence.

"Especially as the brewers said they are prepared to unleash about £600,000 to repair and refurbish the building.

"This was decided on the understanding that our Building Control department will check the building before it opens."