A giant crane hoisted new toilet cubicles into place at Irvine Harbourside on Tuesday lunchtime, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing regeneration of the area. The facilities, designed in the style of beach huts, were lowered from a height and landed precisely in their designated spot near the Pilot House after about 10 minutes of careful maneuvering.
Playpark Progress and Toilet Installation
The toilets are part of the Sea Monster Park, a new playpark that is the centerpiece of the first phase of the Great Harbour regeneration project. A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson confirmed: “The playpark is planned to open during the summer of 2026. Separate plans have been developed and costed for new toilet facilities. These are at an advanced stage now and although the work is being undertaken separately from the current phase one works of the original works planned, it is expected that the toilets will be operational at the time of the opening of the playpark.”
Funding and Masterplan
The Great Harbour programme is funded by a £14m investment through the Ayrshire Growth Deal, with proposals first shared with the community in 2023. The masterplan outlines three main phases of works. Construction is already underway at the Beach Park, which includes the Sea Monster Park. The next stage, Phase Two, will focus on improving the layout and appearance of Harbour Street and Montgomery Street, as well as connections between Irvine Railway Station and the Beach Park. Work on this phase is expected to be completed by next year.
According to the council, future phases of the Maritime Mile proposals are being developed through ongoing stakeholder consultation and are progressing in line with the delivery timelines set out for the Ayrshire Growth Deal.
