A series of public information exhibitions on plans for North Ayrshire's B714 road upgrade are taking place in February.

The aim of the upgrade is to increase the potential for economic development and tourism by significantly improving connectivity to Glasgow, the central belt and wider motorway network.

It would also provide enhanced links to the Arran and Cumbrae ferry services, supporting the repopulation of North Ayrshire’s islands and rural areas.

And it would divert a significant volume of traffic, including HGVs, accessing the A78 from travelling through Kilwinning as the upgraded road will connect directly to the A78.

The drop-in exhibitions, being hosted by North Ayrshire Council and its project delivery partners, will be held from 4.30pm to 8.30pm on the following dates.

Tuesday, February 13 – Kilwinning Academy, Dalry Road, KA13 7HD

Wednesday, February 14 – Dalry Primary School, Sharon Street, KA24 5DR

Thursday, February 15 – Saltcoats Town Hall, 17-21 Countess Street, Saltcoats KA21 5HP.

All interested parties are invited along to look at the plans. There is no need to book a place, simply turn up on the night.

The council and its delivery partners have carried out extensive consultations with landowners and stakeholders, and also hosted a public consultation exercise and previous exhibitions on the plans.

It is proposed to deliver a revised scheme in two phases. Phase one would start from Girthill to the Hillend roundabout, with improvements between Meiklelaught and Muirlaught farms, and the construction of a roundabout to connect the upgraded road to the Hillend roundabout.

Phase Two, between the Sharphill roundabout and Muirlaught, and active travel infrastructure along the route, would be carried out at a later date, subject to funding.

Councillor Tony Gurney, NAC's cabinet member for green environment and economy, said: “I would encourage anyone with an interest in the B714 upgrade to attend one of the three public information exhibitions.

“These offer local communities and other stakeholders a great opportunity to look at the plans and get information.”