RUMOURS that a number of flowerbeds on Largs Prom are set to be filled have been rubbish by North Ayrshire Council.

A post on an online forum sparked concerns that the attractions were set to be lost as part of looming cost-cutting measures.

Some flowerbeds in Largs and Millport were scaled back in 2018 due to the council needing to make 'a number of savings'.

A council spokesman told the News this week: “There has been no decision taken to fill in the flowerbeds at Largs Prom.

“Our‘Adopt a Planter’ scheme provides opportunities for community groups, individuals and businesses to take on a flower bed in their locality.

“If you are interested in finding out more, search ‘Adopt a Planter’ at www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk.”

Councillor Ian Murdoch said he had heard nothing to back up the rumour.

He added: "A member of the public made several comments online, claiming that all four Largs councillors had held a meeting and that a decision had been taken on flower beds being filled in.

"I can categorically say that this is not the case.

"However, communities are going to have to help themselves in future - any group or organisation can adopt individual flower beds.

"Largs Community Council adopted a rose bed at the foot of Gogoside Road last year for example."

Cllr. Alex Gallagher, of the ruling Labour administration, said: "I have spoken to the officers at North Ayrshire Council and they tell me it is not happening.

"No decision can be taken as the budget hasn't been set as yet for the forthcoming year."

However Cllr, Marshall also warned readers a few weeks ago that the council is going to do less for the communities in future.

He said that this could affect issues such as 'flower beds being maintained' while town councillor Tom Marshall suggested that the public 'may have to sweep their own streets'.

Corporate council director Laura Friel also said that our towns will require a more 'collaborative approach' in terms of service delivery as council finance bosses look to save nearly £50m over the next three years.