The long awaited arrival of traffic wardens, operated by the council to impose parking restrictions in Largs, might not now be introduced until 2024.

There had been initial hopes that the decriminalisation of parking - which will result in North Ayrshire Council taking over the policing of parking in Largs town centre - would happen in the summer but it was delayed to September.

The changes will see one hour parking with no return imposed in the Main Street - as well as attendants keeping an eye on the Gateside Street car park after concerns were raised that it was becoming a 'free for all' due to people not paying for parking at the site.

Wardens would have the power to impose fines - and the quick, one hour stays in the Main Street, it is hoped, would mean that there would be a quick turnaround of spaces.

At the recent Largs Community Council meeting, it was confirmed that the introduction of wardens to oversee the parking issues in Largs has been delayed further due to red tape.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: Sergeant Mark Semple of Largs Police who will carry on enforcement of parking measures till end of yearSergeant Mark Semple of Largs Police who will carry on enforcement of parking measures till end of year (Image: Newsquest)

Seregant Mark Semple, of Largs Police, was confident that the transition would have benefits in the town as he has seem decriminaliation of parking working well in other districts.

Conservative councillor Tom Marshall said: "With regard to parking attendants, officers are continuing to progress the introduction of decriminalised parking enforcement.

"Transport Scotland are still indicating a go live date of November 3, 2023, however as this is subject to parliamentary process the date could still change.

Largs and Millport Weekly News: Cllr Tom Marshall revealed delays to schemeCllr Tom Marshall revealed delays to scheme (Image: North Ayrshire Council)

"The introduction of parking attendants will require the procurement of support for the administration and processing of the penalty charge notices and this procurement process is ongoing.

"We can’t at this stage confirm a go live due, however it is anticipated to be the end of 2023 to the beginning of 2024."

There will be free parking for one hour on Largs Main Street, and while that rule has always been the case, it will be enforced by council traffic wardens when wardens are introduced.

Cllr Marshall pointed out that illegal parking, and parking on corners, will result in £60 fines.