Controversial plans for the takeover of an Irvine Community Centre have been pulled.

ANCHO says it has withdrawn its application for the Community Asset Transfer of Redburn Community Centre ‘at this time’.

The Provost and Irvine West Councillor Ian Clarkson has welcomed the news saying it’s a good thing for Redburn and Castlepark.

A spokesperson at ANCHO said: “At a meeting of ANCHO’s Management Board on 26 January 2017, the Board agreed to withdraw ANCHO’s application for the Community Asset Transfer of Redburn Community Centre at this time.

“No further comment will be made in this regard.”

Councillor Ian Clarkson told the Irvine Times he is pleased they have decided to withdraw their interest in the Redburn Centre.

He said: “This is a good result for the people of Redburn and Castlepark.

“It has been a very difficult time for the present users of the Community Centre, and has created a level of uncertainty.

“Hopefully now that the way ahead is clear, we will see the Centre being used to promote events and organisations to benefit the Community.

The Provost added: “Ancho will still, of course, be encouraged and welcome to use the Centre.”

As previously reported in the Irvine Times, ANCHO has been on the verge of dropping plans for the Community Asset Transfer before.

ANCHO voiced disappointment at how long the process has taken having first submitted their application four years ago.

In July last year, the Times exclusively revealed how ANCHO were considering abandoning their plans after North Ayrshire Council delayed moving to Stage 4 of the transfer.

In early 2015, the Times reported how members of Redburn and Vineburgh Community Association were outraged at ANCHO’s original plans which included proposals to make the centre their permanent home.

Irvine West Councillor and ex-ANCHO board member Ian Clarkson also voiced opposition to the housing association’s plans and disapproval of the company.

ANCHO, however, say that out of 8,000 questionnaires issued on the proposal, the overwhelming majority of residents’ responses were in favour of the development.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We value our partnership with ANCHO and, while this asset transfer has not come to fruition, we hope to continue working with them to deliver local services whenever possible.”