Progress continues to be made on a number of projects to improve Largs town centre.

However, attempts to brighten up the pavements along the Main Street were put on hold after Transport Scotland refused to take on further maintenance responsibilities.

The North Coast Area Committee was discussing the programme of work supported by the Largs seafront car park fund.

Discussions had taken place on the potential to brighten the footpaths in the town centre - including the use of more attractive, colourful material. Councillors heard that Transport Scotland would only accept any improvements beyond their ‘standard specification’ if the maintenance of the areas was taken on by North Ayrshire Council - a move which the council deemed ‘unacceptable’.

However, officials confirmed that the paving would be looked at in the context of the wider Largs regeneration ‘masterplan’. The possibility of Hunterston B’s operators EDF sponsoring cycle racks near the Pencil was also mooted.

Councillors also discussed the need for repair works to address surface ‘dipping’ at the Haylie Brae viewpoint car park and the path leading to it. The use of the car park fund to support the promotion of the town and events was also raised - particularly in relation to providing prominent signage on entering the town and how it could be used to promote the likes of the Viking Festival and similar events.

North Ayrshire Council’s regeneration team is currently working on a ‘masterplan’ for the town centre - between the train station, Main Street, Vikingar! Mackerston and Aubery.

The report to the Area Committee stated that their review will include “the production of design proposals to improve the area to the benefit of visitors, residents and businesses within the town.

Initial consultations have now concluded and council officers are working to develop outline proposals.

�-� The Pencil is currently being assessed by a conservation architect to assess the condition of the monument’s gargoyles.

�-� New steps between the Haylie Brae car park and the viewpoint have been installed along with picnic benches. Further signage is due to be installed next year.

�-� The new lighting columns, to be installed by Transport Scotland, will be fitted with brackets to display banners.

�-� Potential sites for cycle racks have been visited by the council’s access officer and the BID and a scheme is being developed.

�-�‘Finger signs’ pointing visitors towards attractions are also to be considered.