TWO key projects being led by Irvine Bay Regeneration Company were visited by Scottish Government Ministers last week.

Deputy First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon visited the Ardrossan Quayside site, while colleague Alex Neil, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing, visited the new Ardrossan Medical Centre site.

Ardrossan Quayside is part of the wider plan to regenerate Ardrossan.

The proposal is for a first phase of contemporary office accommodation with possibilities for a small cafe and chandlery and a second phase of a hotel development.

The site has been cleared by the relocation of a boat park to create a gateway and interesting feature for the area.

The project recently won £1.8million funding from the Scottish Government, alongside £437,000 ERDF, £200,000 South West Hub, and £375,000 Nuclear Decommissioning Agency monies.

The new medical centre on the site of the former police station will provide an excellent improvement for residents and also a first-class facility for ferry users.

Patrick Wiggins, Chief Executive of Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, said: “Ultimately the proposed development will create new jobs, providing commercial opportunities and new homes which will benefit the community.

Cabinet Member for Economy and Employment, Councillor Marie Burns, said: “With support from our funding partners, North Ayrshire Council will breathe new life into this community – creating much needed jobs and and really bringing about a positive change to the area.”