Fresh masterplan for Irvine harbourside devised as major park at heart of plans

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A fresh masterplan showcasing blueprints for the future of Irvine harbourside have been devised.North Ayrshire Council is preparing to release the latest proposals for the town's coastal region with aims to to transform the area into a 'cultural hotspot'.The Great Harbour plan could see the creation of three key hubs on a maritime mile from the town's train station to the mouth of the harbour.The three hubs are as follows: • a Coastal Hub with a major new play facility at the Beach Park and improved outdoor facilities with longer term plans for the landmark Pilot House and a café/restaurant facility• a Marina/Arts/Events/Food Hub which will feature a new waterfront plaza help to support events and give better access to marina, additional food offerings to make the area even more of a destination for its visitors, and including the redevelopment of the Harbourmaster’s House• a Maritime Hub which aims to create expanded facilities for the National Maritime MuseumPublic opinion was sought on the first stage of plans concerning the coastal hub with plans currently being fine-tuned for further consultation.A new consultation, which launches later this week, is looking to gather the thoughts on other aspects of the blueprints.The new masterplan will provide more details of the physical improvements along the harbourside.There will also be a series of drop-in events:In addition, the information boards will be displayed at the Irvine Library and at the fence in front of the Harbour Arts Centre, with the feedback forms and collection boxes available within the facilities.Councillor Tony Gurney said: “The Great Harbour plans for Irvine are hugely ambitious and very exciting.