A councillor is calling for a site in Stevenston related to the Napoleonic Wars to be restored into a visitor attraction.

Jimmy Miller wants to see the area of the former Nelson’s Gun Battery made accessible for visitors. The site, near Auchenharvie Academy, has become overgrown over the years and had four canons. These were located as a defence from Napoleon’s army attacking the coal mines of Stevenston and Saltcoats.

Councillor Miller said: “It’s a fantastic viewing point on a public pathway. We’re trying to have it refurbished, put a handrail up, make it more attractive and make it an acceptable area for anyone to enjoy. It would be a great place to stop, take in the bay and maybe stop to have a picnic. It’s another thing we need in the Three Towns.

“We have had an offer from someone for an old canon but unfortunately that was a WWI canon. Maybe somebody will have an old Napoleonic era canon? As long as we have the place respectable.”

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “There has been an initial discussion regarding improvements at the Nelson’s Gun Battery site. We will hopefully be in a position to provide more details over the coming weeks.”