A campaign has been launched to improve the safety of walkers on a dangerous section of the A78 near Skelmorlie.

Resident Nick Hobson says the stretch of the Ayrshire Coastal Path from the bottom of Skelmorlie Castle Road to the Meigle Road needs urgent improvements before a life is lost.

The local architect says anyone wanting to follow the path along the stretch has to twice cross the busy A78 at points where cars are travelling in excess of 50mph.

Nick explained: “At the moment if you are following the path you have to cross the A78, walk 250 metres along a muddy pavement and then cross back again.

“It’s dangerous, visibility is limited and traffic can be going anywhere around 50mph.

“I want to extend the coastal path along the eastern side of the road to avoid multiple crossings and create a safer route for pedestrians and cyclists.

“I’m hoping on the back of all the promises made by local councillors during the election, they will give this some support and push for action.”

North Coast councillor Todd Ferguson is involved in the campaign for change, and says discussions with roads company Amey have been positive.

He explained: “Nick showed me some of the challenge and I agree that it needs improvements to make it safer and ultimately improve sight lines.

“I have already spoken with the network area manager for Amey who have agreed to add it into their active travel list following discussions with their own strategic road safety team.

“It is of course very early days in the campaign for improvements at this location and the next steps will be to bring Amey on site."