“Gems” sparkle in new flood defence scheme

A key part of Irvine Bay Regeneration Company’s strategy to create a series of ‘Coastal Beacons’ ― using the region’s 14-miles of stunning shoreline to help create a sense of place ― has been officially launched.

A flood defence scheme commissioned by North Ayrshire Council together with specifically designed and illuminated public artwork by Irvine Bay, are now in place at Saltcoats protecting and enhancing the local environment.

Costing £1.96m, the flood defence scheme was funded by North Ayrshire Council with 80% grant assistance from the Scottish Government.

When Councillor Tom Barr of North Ayrshire Council switched on the lighting this week to illuminate the white rocks incorporated into the breakwater rock structures, it marked the conclusion of a project started in January 2008.

The Coastal Beacons part of the scheme – named ‘Gems among the rocks’ – was designed by the Lighthouse, and cost £90,000 including the information boards. The white rocks ― representing the salt from which Saltcoats took its name ― are illuminated by clever feature lighting.

Chief Executive of Irvine Bay, Patrick Wiggins said: “This is an important part of the Coastal Beacons plan, which in itself is part of the vision for a coastal park.

“These are designed to make the most of the amazing natural resources we enjoy in Irvine Bay, and to enhance our outstanding natural environment as well as to help stimulate interest in the area and help change perceptions.

“Regeneration is about creating a strong sense of place, and when people are proud of their environment that is what happens.

“An additional phase of the Coastal Beacons strategy is currently underway to introduce lighting to Saltcoats pier, which is currently completely unlit at night. The project is to install 15 LED lighting units on the pier to light up the back wall. The scheme will be powered by a combination of solar panels and a wind turbine attached to the sea wall.

The beacons are designed to increase interest in the area and change perceptions ― helping the economic and cultural renaissance of Irvine Bay.”

Speaking about the project, Councillor Barr said: “The purpose of the scheme was to reduce the risk of flooding to residential properties in Winton Circus, Sydney Street, Eglinton Street and Melbourne Road and Saltcoats Town centre. So far, the defences have not been tested against the level of storm for which they were designed. However, during lesser storms over last winter, the breakwaters and seawall did what they were designed to do. I congratulate all those involved in this challenging scheme and also Irvine Bay on the eye-catching public artwork.”