More than 200 people took part in a consultation on plans under the Great Harbour Project – with a much-needed play park set to be the main attraction in plans at Irvine Harbourside.

A  North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the initial phase of our consultation for the Great Harbour plans.

“More than 200 responses were submitted as part of the consultation and young people have also played their part with local youth groups and secondary school pupils participating in a design competition.

“The feedback we received from members of the public have helped shape the initial plans, with a particular focus on the Coastal Hub including a new play facility for the beach park.”

“The consultation report into the initial phase of the Great Harbour proposals is now available to view online and we hope to be in position to announce further progress in the near future.”

Public consultation was undertaken in February and March on proposals for the Great Harbour, focused in particular on the plans for a play facility envisaged to be a first phase of development.

 The consultation material  was  developed with the involvement of the local community representatives and views were gathered via online survey and also during the public events and displays. 

A total of 201 responses were submitted.

 In addition, design workshops with local youth groups and primary schools, and also a design competition for secondary schools were carried out.

North Ayrshire Council and the project leads would like to thank all respondents for their time and support for the proposals, but also for the very constructive feedback provided.

 The consultation report outlines the main outcomes and recommendations to be considered and/or implemented during the further development of the proposals. 

The first phase of development works will see the design team appointed for the detailed design of the play facility later this year.

The projects form part of the Growth Deal and require a full Business Case to be agreed and approved by Scottish Government before funding and projects can be confirmed. 

The Core Project is the development of an improved link between the Waterfront and the Town through new development, activity and public realm improvements. This project’s working title is the Maritime Mile.

North Ayrshire Council  are also promoting the development of the existing beach pavilion for a new restaurant facility, benefiting from its outstanding coastal views. 

This would incorporate public toilet provision and continued use by the Coast watch organisation. 

Also being looked at is  potential for the restoration and repair of this B Listed heritage asset of a significant importance to  Irvine’s Harbour history will be explored.

Provision of toilets will be maintained in the area.

 These are currently located within the Beach Pavilion, which will soon see repair works. As future options for the building are developed in more detail, there is a commitment to retain provision for toilets and community space. 

NAC will continue to work with the Coastwatch as the building’s tenant as proposals develop. Car park provision will be maintained, but may be reconfigured as proposals for the Great Harbour develop. 

A comprehensive transport, parking and active travel strategy relating to the entire Great Harbour area will be developed