PLANS for a £3.5 million 28-unit residential development at the site of Ardrossan’s former Stanley Primary are expected to be given the go-ahead.

Cunninghame Housing Association (CHA) plans to build 20 houses and eight cottage flats at the site on Stanley Road.

And the work is expected to begin in late February or early March next year.

Frank Sweeney, Chief Executive of CHA, said that the development could provide opportunities for young people.

He told the Herald: “We’re hoping it will create one or two apprenticeships in the building trade and we’re hoping to get the local school involved through arts projects.

“We are delighted to see that the Stanley Primary site is now moving forward.

“This is due to the Scottish Government’s pledge to meet a commitment for 50,000 homes over the next five years and North Ayrshire Council have made this one of their priorities.”

The plans were originally approved by North Ayrshire Council in 2009 but were not carried through due to government spending cuts, lack of funding and other priorities within the council’s Strategic Housing Investment Plan.

CHA intends to re-submit their proposals this month and they are expected to be given the green light.

Tony Gurney, Councillor for Ardrossan and Arran and member of CHA’s Board, warmly welcomed the new proposals.

He said: “I am delighted to see this plan going ahead. These new homes will provide much needed new capacity for those on the waiting list for social housing.

“Building these shortly after the Thatcherite ‘right to buy’ legislation and its ruinous effect on the housing supply signals the intent of North Ayrshire Council, CHA and all their other partners to rebuild the supply of housing in the area.

“CHA are also to be commended on their track record of listening to the local community regarding building proposals.

“Anyone involved in their proposals for the Montgomerie Street development will recall their exemplary response to the original consultation and addressing the minor objections raised.

“I am sure that in this case they will devise a plan for a high quality addition to the local community that will receive the enthusiastic support of the local people.”

A public consultation showcasing the plans will be held on Thursday, August 4 at Whitlees Community Centre from 2-6.30pm.

All members of the community are welcome to attend the consultation.