i bay: changing the image of the Irvine Bay area

The industrial and new town legacy has left the Irvine Bay area with a poor image, which has hindered new investment, new residents and visitors. But now that negative image is gradually changing.

New quality standards are being set for the design and construction of housing, offices and town centre shops. This will attract commercial property investment and housing developments into the area. Town centre regeneration plans have been created for Irvine, Kilwinning, Stevenston, Saltcoats and Ardrossan.

Major projects

Already major developments are being planned that will have influence on how people think about the area. The creation of a new village community at Irvine Harbour and the transformation of Ardrossan North Shore are both great examples of mixed use, coastal developments that are bringing regeneration to the area. Another major development is the golf course and resort, The Ayrshire, at Western Gailes on the edge of Irvine.

Transforming the towns

The regeneration of Irvine, Saltcoats, Stevenston, Ardrossan and Kilwinning is right at the heart of our activities and plans for each of the town centres are already developing. A major refurbishment project has brought new businesses to Kilwinning Main Street and plans are now well advanced to upgrade the Bridgegate in Irvine.

On the coast

A coastal park framework has been developed which considers the landscape, heritage, and environmental character of the area. A lighting plan will aim to illuminate the coastline and headlands and a series of coastal beacons will be become new landmarks around the bay.