North Ayrshire Council's planning committee has approved a controversial 220-home development in West Kilbride.

The planning application by Persimmon and Charles Church Homes had been lodged for more than a year, with delays meaning the decision was not made until today. 

Objectors Graham Buckley, George Cloughley and Janet Martin spoke at the meeting, with Persimmon planning manager Kevin Murphy speaking on behalf of the developer.

Planning officers had recommended approval of the 10.5 hectare site, responding to the objector's concerns in an online document. 

A motion was tabled by Councillors Ian Murdoch and Timothy Billings to reject the application on the basis that not enough assurance was given that the village's medical centre could cope with the influx of residents. 

A vote was initially split four to four, with councillor Robert Foster as chair of plannning getting the deciding vote in favour of approving the application. 

Campaigners had fought against the site next to the A78 and adjacent to Summerlea Road, saying the village infrastructure cannot cope with the additional housing. 

Residents held a rally and letter signing at the site earlier this month, urging councillors to consider the village and its future when making their decision. 

Housebuilder Persimmon claims the proposed development could deliver £33 million of investment in the local community and create 140 new jobs.

The proposals include a variety of homes ranging from two bedroom terraces to five bedroom detached homes.

New play parks and areas of open public space will be key features of the development, as well as 16 purpose-built homes for elderly people.

The company also says it will provide funding for upgrades to the village primary school, new pedestrian crossings on the A78 and new links between the site and the local path network.

It is estimated that the development would create around 80 jobs in the construction sector, with a further 60 in services and other local firms.