We are looking for volunteers to ensure that our regeneration of Irvine Harbourside is inclusive and welcoming for everybody.
The £14 million ‘Great Harbour’ project is underway with contractors McLaughlin Construction on site and working on the ‘Coastal Hub’ first phase.
And our officer behind the project is organising a community engagement session to inspect accessibility along the Harbourside – from the train station to the beach.
This session has been set to understand the experiences of people with limited mobility, disabilities, learning difficulties, or other conditions that may limit their safe use of the area.
We need volunteers to assist participants in capturing real-time feedback on mobile devices as participants share their insights during the walk, highlighting barriers and suggesting improvements.
Volunteers will need to download the free Quick Capture app (download it here https://arcg.is/14Dznz0) and have a mobile device connected to internet. Instructions and T&C of use available here.
Regeneration Officer Kasia Smith said: “We are moving forward with the Great Harbour plans and are delighted with the progress being made.
“We want this to be a regeneration project that can be enjoyed by everyone. Your input will directly contribute to shaping the second phase of this project, ensuring a more inclusive and accessible Harbourside for everyone. Please get involved and play your part.”
The first phase of the project, ‘Coastal Hub’, was approved at the end of last year. Works will include the development of a themed regional playpark and other recreational facilities, and landscaping reflecting the coastal location, a new setting for the Pilot House, improved connections between the Beach Park and the Harbourside supporting active travel, and the re-lining of the Beach Drive car park to increase capacity.
Following the first phase, work will begin on the second phase of the project. The Maritime Mile, including Marine & Arts Hub which will feature a new waterfront space helping to support events, improved access to marine facilities, and the redevelopment of important heritage assets, subject to additional funding.
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 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.
The first walk took place today (March 13) with further walks taking place at the following dates. Lunch is available at one of the harbourside’s cafés:
– 19th March am – 8 volunteers needed
– 20th March am – 10 volunteers needed
– 20th March pm – 20 volunteers needed
AM session
10:00 – assemble at the Irvine Train Station underpass at Montgomery Street
10:15 – start along the Harbourside towards the Pierhead on the north side and return on the south side
11:30 – lunch
PM session
12:00 – assemble at the Irvine Train Station underpass at Montgomery Street
12:15 – start along the Harbourside towards the Pierhead on the north side and return on the south side
13:30 – lunch