The ferry queue construction works in Largs are expected to be completed in time for the busy Easter weekend.

Local businesses had contacted the News voicing concerns after pedestrians were seen spilling out onto the road to negotiate their way around the works yesterday.

Conservative councillor Tom Marshall said: "The main works are substantially completed.

"I wrote to the Roads Department of North Ayrshire Council last week seeking assurances after they had posted a diversion around the prom and Wetherspoons - and that is obviously not of any use for the Easter holidays and has to be re-opened.

"I have just talked to the contractors this morning and there will be some works that need to be carried over but there will be total access for pedestrians.

"The improvements have got to happen but it was good to get a reassurance regarding the access which will be open by Thursday I have been told."

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “While the original works were scheduled to be completed by the end of March, a stone culvert was uncovered which was not on available records.

“This culvert was blocked, requiring a new culvert to be installed. We are progressing with the installation but in the meantime, we will re-instate a temporary footpath to allow the promenade to open for the Easter weekend.

“We apologise for this unforeseen delay and aim to ensure any impact of the work is minimised.”

Access improvement works have been taking place at the Largs ferry queue in Fort Street since March 6.

The works consist of creating an additional queuing lane (6 cars), footway widening, and establishing crossing points to better manage active travel flow
Also taking place is the removal of coach drop off point – coaches will be encouraged to use existing bus stop provision as drop off/pick up only
There are also measures being introduced to manage the right turning ferry traffic from Bath Street.

And as recently reported, a historic discovery of a drainage system that could date back to the 1700s has been unearthed during the works.

The Viking Galley monument on Fort Street has also altered course to true North to improve access at the new ferry traffic vehicles.