The completion of the first phase of the Great Harbour project, in Irvine was officially marked at a special celebration.
Phase One of the £14 million Great Harbour project – known as the Coastal Hub – radically redevelops the waterfront area in a major boost to the town.
The centrepiece of the Coastal Hub is the Sea Monster Park which incorporates a large pirate ship, slides, a skatepark and pump track and a stone sea dragon.
North Ayrshire Provost Anthea Dickson cut the ribbon and was joined young people from Glebe Primary, Councillor Christina Larsen, Depute Leader of North Ayrshire Council, community representatives and other esteemed guests.
Also joining them was Greenwood Academy pupil Lewis Templeton, who came up with the name – Sea Monster Park – after extensive consultation with young people from local schools.
The Sea Monster Park is part of the Great Harbour plans for Irvine’s Harbourside area. The Great Harbour project is a £14 million Ayrshire Growth Deal investment in the area which is being supported by £9 million from the Scottish Government and £5m from North Ayrshire Council with future phases being delivered over the next two years.
As well as the Sea Monster Park, the Coastal Hub first phase development includes:
• Picnic area
• Pilot House Plaza
• Asphalt footways with coloured flexible surfacing
• The Skate Park and Pump Track
• Street furniture and seating throughout the site
Work will also be undertaken with cycling groups to support use of the pump track.
The ‘Great Harbour’ is a key component of the £251m Ayrshire Growth Deal and one of the most ambitious and transformational regeneration tourism proposals for the region.The Scottish Government believes it is vital to invest in the regeneration of areas and provide support to help bolster he economy of our regions.
“The public realm improvements delivered through this phase of development, including the impressive Sea Monster Park, will play a key part in attracting more visitors to the Irvine area, boosting the local economy and providing a strong foundation for the next phases of the Great Harbour development.”
Tom Arthur MSP, Minister for Business and Fair Work
The Sea Monster Park has a magical and mystical feel and is themed around local folklore and coastal heritage through four concept zones:
A War Waged in Sea and on Land featuring the landmark Sea Monster Play Area.
Seven Whales, A Cirein Croin's Feed forming the Mini Play Area.
Better Sma Fish Than Nane providing dynamic and active play opportunities.
Sensory and Quiet Spaces, creating inclusive areas for reflection and quieter play experiences.
As well as the park and all its features, new modular distinctive beach hut-inspired toilets are also in place at the facility.
Councillor Eleanor Collier, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the park is now open and we look forward to seeing families visiting over the coming weeks, months and years.
“Our development at the Harbourside is marine based with a clear focus on our water spaces and the park represents that.
“The Ayrshire Growth Deal is of huge significance to this region, and we are delighted that we are now delivering the Sea Monster Park and many other attractions at the Harbourside.”
Councillor Tony Gurney, Leader of North Ayrshire Council and chair of Ayrshire Economic Joint Committee, added: “A huge thanks to all those involved in ensuring we could provide this facility for the people of Ayrshire and beyond. The Ayrshire Growth Deal has the potential to transform Ayrshire and it is great to see some of our developments now taking shape.
“We are continuing to move forward with many of our projects and we are excited for the future and what we can develop and deliver here in Ayrshire.”
The second phase of the project, the Maritime Mile, will include a Marine & Arts Hub which will feature a new waterfront space helping to support events and improved access to marine facilities. This work will also consider how the historic Harbour Master’s Office can be further improved.
The third phase aims to create a Maritime Heritage Hub. This will see the Council work in partnership with the Scottish Maritime Museum and Crown Estate Scotland to enhance existing facilities around the Harbourside, and strengthen connections between key waterfront destinations, including the Beach Pavilion, Puffers Café area and Irvine Train Station.