A SCOTTISH Government minister visited Ardrossan last week and was shown plans for a future project.

Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment and Cities, Keith Brown met with the leader of North Ayrshire Council Willie Gibson, Councillor Marie Burns, Chief Executive Elma Murray and senior officers.

The minister visited Ardrossan Harbour and heard about the council’s ambitious plans for this to become a national regeneration project, which has already secured Scottish Government commitment and support in a working group.

This is just one of the areas which may be included within the Ayrshire Growth Deal which is being developed alongside South and East Ayrshire Councils.

Transport in the area was heavily discussed as the implementation of the Dalry by-pass and other improvements to the A737 and B714 road were highlighted on the basis of safety, easing congestion, reducing journey times and encouraging economic development.

Councillor Marie Burns, Cabinet Member for Economy and Employment said: “We were delighted to welcome Cabinet Secretary Keith Brown to North Ayrshire this week and have the opportunity to discuss our strategically important projects.

“One of the council’s key priorities is to regenerate our towns. We are working closely with our public and private sector partners and local communities and we’re making real progress.

“The Ayrshire Growth Deal is just one example of an initiative which will form the basis of a long-term economic investment strategy in a bid to regenerate our area and boost the local economy.”