COUNCIL bosses have appointed the contractor for the £3million regeneration of Irvine High Street.

Urban design firm LUC will lead the “comprehensive” upgrade of the High Street and Bank Street as well as the historic vennels that link the town centre to East Road car park.

The company will lead a project team alongside Peter Brett Associates, Harley Haddow and Hawthorne Boyle Partnership.

The new redevelopment is the latest project to be undertaken in the town centre following the refurbishment of Bridgegate, Trinity Church and the construction of the £20million Portal Leisure Centre.

New bus stops will also be created in a bid to make the town centre more appealing and accessible.

Duncan McLean, Associate Director in LUC’s Glasgow office said: “We are thrilled that North Ayrshire Council has chosen LUC to design the new streetscape for Irvine Town Centre. 

“We are thoroughly looking forward to working collaboratively with North Ayrshire Council, the design team and the community to ensure Irvine Town Centre is recognised as a real asset and contributes to the town’s economic, social and environmental success.”

LUC were responsible for delivering public realm redevelopment in Inverness City Centre, Newcastle Science Central, Glasgow University and Shawfield National Business District.

Councillor Alex Gallagher, Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “Growing our economy, increasing employment and regenerating towns is a key priority for North Ayrshire Council. 

“We have invested in a number of regeneration projects in our town centres including the new Irvine Leisure Centre – the Portal – which is nearing completion. 

“The project confirms our commitment to delivering the Irvine Vision as part of an area-wide regeneration initiative.”