Advertising billboards will now bid to grab drivers attention at Irvine’s busiest roundabouts after plans were approved.

This comes after the money making scheme was previously approved at cabinet – despite safety fears that drivers will be distracted.

Planning applications for seven billboards at the Stanecastle roundabout, six at the Hill Interchange and five for the Victoria Roundabout from Marketing Force Limited (MFL) were among the areas approved by planners last week.

Another nine will be displayed across three roundabouts in the Riverway Retail park.

Four ads will now be placed at Marress roundabout, Towerlands Interchange, Newhouse, Nethermains, Three Stanes, Merryvale, and Portland roundabouts, with three at Fullarton, Greenwood, Millgarholm, Annick and Corsehill Mount roundabouts.

The Radio City roundabout in Kilbirnie would also have four – with plans for floral bed sponsorship to be considered by cabinet last month.

The council aims to raise £20,000 from the new venture, with officers stating the advertising move could boost the local economy and make money for services.

However SNP Cllr Tony Gurney said: “The last thing a driver needs when they are getting to a roundabout is something to distract them.

“Given the safety implications I think it is not enough return to take those risks. ”

All agreements made with advertisers will include a statement that the council would still carry out its statutory duties with impartiality regardless of deals.

North Ayrshire Council leader Joe Cullinane said: “We all know the significant challenges facing local businesses as they emerge from the pandemic, so we have to come up with new ways to support our local economy while at the same time protecting our services. Our Community Wealth Building Strategy commits to supporting the regeneration of our communities by maximising all of our land and assets.”