Plans to create a flood protection scheme for Millport have taken another significant step forward.

North Ayrshire Council's Cabinet has agreed to the preliminary confirmation of the proposed Millport Coastal Flood Protection Scheme.

The flood protection scheme aims to create an offshore breakwater connecting the small islands in Millport Bay, in addition to onshore flood walls and other protection along the Millport shoreline, reducing the risk of flooding to vulnerable properties in the town.

It will include the creation of a 120m long rock armour breakwater connecting The Leug and The Spoig islands and a 210m long rock armour breakwater between The Spoig and the southern Eilean. The blueprint also includes onshore flood walls and drainage improvements to minimise residual flood risks.

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Not only is the scheme aimed at protecting properties from flooding, but a major element of the design aims to enhance access along the Millport seafront for both pedestrians and cyclists, as well as making a positive contribution to public realm.

The preferred option will also create an area of sheltered water which could allow the future development of a community marina supporting the potential for step-ashore facilities under the auspices of the Ayrshire Growth Deal.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, Cabinet Member for Green New Deal & Sustainability, said: "The Millport Flood Protection Scheme has really been shaped by residents of Cumbrae whose voice has been heard loud and clear throughout the process.

"We are now very close to the scheme moving from the planning stage to becoming a reality so I would like to thank residents for their fantastic contribution."

Following the preliminary confirmation of the scheme, the objectors will be notified of the decision and will have a further opportunity to consider their objections. It is expected that Cabinet will be asked to consider final confirmation of the scheme later this year, which will allow the Council to move on with detailed design and tender preparation works.

The estimated cost of the scheme is £27.5m, with 80 per cent of the funding coming from the Scottish Government and the remaining 20 per cent funded by North Ayrshire Council.

Construction is currently expected to get under way in early 2022 and is likely to take about two years to complete.