A “challenging operation” to deliver huge cranes onto a Millport beach was completed successfully earlier this month.

As part of the island’s coastal flood protection scheme, two cranes had to be delivered to Millport by water via the beach at Kames Bay on July 8 and 9.

The project will improve the condition and flood risk performance of the 2km stretch of Millport seafront, with the construction led by North Ayrshire Council and Mackley.

A spokesperson for the project’s community liaison team confirmed that there was no other way to get the equipment onto the island.

They explained: “The operation to deliver the cranes was a real challenge for the construction team, and finding a location on the island for a large landing craft to deliver the cranes was difficult.

“After other avenues were exhausted, it was decided that Kames Bay was the safest and most suitable location.

“The team relished the challenge and sprang into action to complete the operation successfully and safely.

“Before any logistical operations, Mackley first applied for permission from Nature Scot, which was granted and approved.

“They then carried out tests to ensure the sand at Kames Bay was firm enough to support the cranes, and designed a mat to create a stable landing path for the cranes.

“Once all this was in place, the team set to work preparing the cranes for transport. To reduce the weight, each crane was partially dismantled before being loaded onto the landing craft.” 

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “We are very pleased that this complex operation went smoothly, and the delivery of the cranes was successful.

“We would like to thank the community for their support at this important stage of the Flood Protection Scheme works.”

For more information on the project go to www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/your-community/community-safety/flooding/millport-coastal-fps.aspx.