AMBITIOUS plans for improved sporting facilities in the Garnock Valley have progressed to the next stage.

North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet has agreed in principle to take forward Community Asset Transfer proposals by Garnock Rugby Club for grounds at Kilbirnie’s Lochshore.

The move is part of the club’s drive to improve sporting facilities in the area.

The rugby club envisages that a Community Asset Transfer would enable it to continue to expand and improve its provision, build its local and national reputation for excellence in rugby and encourage healthier lifestyles for children, young people and adults.

The club anticipates that a Community Asset Transfer will allow it to push ahead with plans to build new facilities, offering improved training and fitness programmes for its members, and boost take-up of the sport.

The club’s committee has already begun discussions with SportScotland and the Scottish Rugby Union on potential funding to improve the facility to make it a centre of excellence for rugby.

At Cabinet last week, members approved in principle to progress the application to its next stage which will allow further discussions to take place.

Councillor Louise McPhater, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Community asset transfers provide an opportunity for people to be involved in developing and providing opportunities or services for their local communities.

“The rugby club deserve credit for what they are achieving for the sport in the Garnock Valley area and their efforts to encourage healthy lifestyles.”