AN ICONIC former pub and restaurant in Irvine which has fallen into disrepair in recent years is set to be redeveloped into social housing.

Plans have been approved for six flats in the old King's Arms Hotel building on High Street with work expected to get under way this autumn.

The derelict ex boozer has been an eyesore in the centre of the town since it shut in 2015 and North Ayrshire Council (NAC) purchased the site in 2020 - as revealed in the Times earlier that year.

The three-storey category C listed building dates back to the early 19th century and NAC said its proposals would "secure the long-term future" of the vacant site through its "comprehensive renovation".

A design and access statement submitted alongside the plans - which have been given the green light this week - said: "The overall condition of the existing building, particularly the rear extensions, is very poor.

"The existing slate roof areas exhibit significant damage, with extensive areas of slipped or missing slates and damaged or missing flashings. This is particularly the case in the rear extension areas.

READ MORE: King's Arms lane closed off over concern for loose roof slates after weather

"The external render is extensively damaged and there is damage to stone cornices and string courses. The windows throughout are in a poor condition.

"Internally, there is significant water ingress leading to damage to timber floors and ceilings. There are visible holes in the roof of the later extensions."

Architects Wellwood Leslie said the redevelopment would retain the original building fabric and historic features where possible.

However, the later extensions to the rear of the property are said to be in a "significantly dilapidated state" and will be demolished.

The supporting information states: "It is recognised that the building is category C listed and occupies a prominent corner location within the central conservation area.

"Consequently, any design proposals need to be sympathetic to this urban context and respect the original character of the existing building.

"The original three-storey block will be retained and significantly renovated to form three floors of two-bedroom flats.

"The later extensions to the rear will be demolished and a new three-storey extension created in their place. This extension will comprise three floors of one-bedroom flats linked to the main block by a circulation core including a stair and 8-person DDA-compliant lift."