AN ancient loophole in planning regulations at the Ardeer Peninsula could soon be a thing of the past.

And that could help maintain what is left of the unique environment and wildlife in the area and stop the removal of the sand dunes which once dominated the shoreline.

Local nature enthusiast Iain Hamlin said: “The Ardeer peninsula and dune system is of national importance. Sand quarrying has been ongoing for years, this unique landscape has to be protected.”

There are a huge number of different species of animals in the area as it was fenced off during the heyday of the old ICI.

But since its closure and the opening to the public in 2009, the excavation and selling of sand has seen big changes.

The numbers recorded there in the last five years include 247 beetles, 169 moths and butterflies and 62 spiders.

Changes to the landscape could be halted sooner rather than later. Local naturalists and wildlife char ities feel the Special Development Order covering Ardeer should be revoked.

An ancient loophole means no planning permission is needed for the area but the legislation, from 1953, may be revoked as local MSP Ruth Maguire plans to take the Special Development Order to the Scottish Parliament.

She said: “I and my colleague Councillor Davina McTiernan share concerns about the Ardeer peninsula and were pleased when amendments I proposed to the Planning Bill at stage 2 were accepted. As the bill moves to stage 3 I will work with the government, North Ayrshire Council and others to find a solution to the Special Development Order.”

North Ayrshire Council said: “Things have changed a great deal since 1953. We are keen for this order to be revoked.”