MCLAUGHLIN Construction has commenced work on a project designed to transform Irvine’s harbourside.
The project forms a key component of the £251 million Ayrshire Growth Deal, with phase one set to see the development of a themed regional playpark.
A skatepark is also being constructed, whilst repairs will be made to the Pilot House building and a new landscape park setting created, alongside improved active travel connections. North Ayrshire Council is hoping to secure additional funds for the build of a pump track.
Tom Arthur, Scottish Government investment minister, said, “Through the Ayrshire Growth Deal, the Scottish Government is providing £103 million over 10 years to boost jobs and drive long-term economic growth across the county. This includes a £9 million investment to bring a variety improvements to Irvine’s harbourside, including a play park. All making it easier and more attractive for local families, young people and visitors to enjoy. To enable communities across Scotland to prosper we have allocated £62 million for regeneration projects in our budget for 2025-26.”
Councillor Tony Gurney, cabinet member for green environment and economy at North Ayrshire Council, added, “This is an important milestone for this Ayrshire Growth Deal project and we are delighted work has started on the Coastal Hub first phase of the Great Harbour development. It is fantastic to see McLaughlin Construction on site now and we are really looking forward to seeing the development take shape over the coming weeks and months. The Ayrshire Growth Deal is of huge significant to this region and a lot of work has been undertaken in the background to ensure these exciting projects can be delivered.”
The second phase of works includes the Maritime Mile, which will see the creation of the Marine & Arts Hub – a new feature on the waterfront which will help to support events, improve access to marine facilities, and the redevelopment of the Harbour Master’s Office.
The third phase aims to create a Maritime Heritage Hub. This will see North Ayrshire Council work in partnership with the Scottish Maritime Museum and Crown Estate Scotland to enhance and expand existing facilities around the Harbourside, including the Puffers Café area. It is hoped that this will increase visitors and encourage increased participation in maritime heritage in the area.
Shaun McLaughlin, director of McLaughlin Construction, commented, “The effort put in by the council and their design team to get to this stage is immeasurable and we’re ready and eager to take the helm as we bring the initial phase of this ambitious and transformational project to site. An already popular spot, we look forward to engaging our local workforce and supply chain to deliver the first additions and improvements, making Irvine Beach Park a destination with an even greater draw.”
The funding for the Great Harbour project comprises £9 million from the Scottish Government and £5 million from North Ayrshire Council.
