North Ayrshire Council has announced progress on its long-awaited marina project in Millport, Great Cumbrae, Scotland. The £4.5 million marina, supported by the Scottish Government through the Ayrshire Growth Deal, is scheduled for completion by spring 2028 and aims to boost local marine tourism and economic growth.
The Scottish Government has formally endorsed the development of a marina on Great Cumbrae following the approval of the project's initial business case.
The marina is part of a £9.5 million marine tourism programme intended for both the Isles of Cumbrae and Arran. A sum of £4.5 million has been allocated for the Millport Project.
Wallace Stone Consulting Civil Engineers has been appointed as the lead design firm for the Millport Marina project. The company will develop marina designs, acquire the necessary planning permissions and conduct a full environmental impact assessment.
Councillor Tony Gurney, cabinet member for green environment and economy, stated: "This is an important milestone for this Ayrshire Growth Deal project and we are delighted that the next stage of the marina development work can go ahead.
"The appointment of Wallace Stone is a critical step towards securing the marina permissions and consents, and we are looking forward to seeing the marina design take shape over the coming months," Gurney said.
The new marina will be located at the Millport Pier. Enabled by the existing Millport Flood Protection Scheme’s rock armour breakwater, the project will utilise the newly sheltered area of Millport Bay. The now-closed timber section of the pier will be removed as part of the development.
The marina will feature step-ashore access for various seafaring vessels, opening job opportunities and supporting community engagement and the local marine leisure economy.
Wallace Stone will lead a two-year design and consultation period with stakeholders, marine users and the public before construction begins in late 2027.
Spokesperson for the Millport Pier and Harbour User Group, Graham Wallace, stated, "Millport has needed modern step-ashore marina facilities for a long time, and we are pleased that the Scottish Government and Ayrshire Growth Deal have recognised the economic benefits of a marina for Great Cumbrae."
Wallace added: “The marina in Millport will be a great attraction to the wider boating community of the Firth of Clyde, breathe new life into the Millport Harbour area and help transform the town."
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