TWO sets of road resurfacing works in Largs have been controversially axed from this year's council budget.

Independent councillor Ian Murdoch has lodged an official complaint to North Ayrshire Council regarding the decision to scrap repairs at Kelvin Street and Haco Street.

Both have been removed from this year's resurfacing budget over concerns around the rising costs of other works in the town.

Councillor Murdoch, who has been a regular roads campaigner, is calling for them to be re-instated immediately.

He said: "There were only four roads set for resurfacing in this year's allocation so I think it is a disgrace that two of the streets have now been removed.

"I have been told that the reason is that the cost of the repairs on Brisbane Street increased dramatically.

"It is ridiculous that only four streets in Largs were put forward for resurfacing in the first place and now that has been halved. This is despite the fact North Ayrshire Council found an additional £1m to boost their roads resurfacing budget.

"To remove Haco Street and Kelvin Street is a totally outrageous decision - and I have made it clear to the council that I want it reversed.

"Residents in both streets were expecting these works to take place this year - and I think it is important that commitment is honoured."

It is the latest blow for motorists after works at Flatt Road were pushed on to the turn of the year.

Councillor Murdoch added: "I don't accept the argument that the housing at Flatt Road has to wait to be completed until the road resurfacing is carried out. There are a lot of houses in the new Flatt Road development which are fully occupied.

"To my mind, there is no reason why it should not be resurfaced sooner rather than later too."

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “Our annual roads maintenance investment programme is usually complete towards the end of autumn each year.

“Two projects in Largs, at Haco Street and Kelvin Street, have been slightly delayed beyond this date. Unfortunately, additional costs on another project within Largs, current contractor availability issues due to the pandemic and national HGV driver shortage, along with the upcoming winter period has resulted in us having to reschedule these works to early in the new calendar year.

“We will appoint a contractor for the works as soon as possible. We will endeavour to deliver the works within this financial year should circumstances allow.

“We understand that this is disappointing for affected residents and ask for their patience and understanding during this short delay."