Irvine shortlisted for SURF award
Irvine has been shortlisted by the Scottish Urban Regeneration Forum for its ‘Scotland’s Most Improved Town’ award.
The shortlisting follows significant town centre regeneration work carried out in partnership by Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, North Ayrshire Council and others.
The award also recognised the subsequent ‘Irvine Vision’ – a detailed proposal that outlines short-term and long-term plans to regenerate the town, designed to capitalise on the multi-million pound regeneration already achieved in the town centre.
Irvine Bay led on the development of Bridgegate public realm at the heart of the town – which has increased footfall into the centre – while the adjacent Trinity Church has been transformed into an iconic focal point.
A new leisure centre is also being built, led by North Ayrshire Council, to complement the cultural offer being provide by the civic space in the Town House.
Patrick Wiggins is the Chief Executive of Irvine Bay, an urban regeneration company made up of voluntary members appointed by public sector partner.
He said: “It’s terrific that the regeneration industry body has recognised all of the excellent work carried out in Irvine. We are all very proud of the refurbishment of the Bridgegate public realm and the iconic Trinity Church, and we look forward to further work still to come.
“The work not only creates a better physical environment for the people of the area, it also helps stimulate business opportunities and creates jobs and wealth.
“It’s also work that the people of Irvine should feel real ownership of, given the high levels of consultation, engagement, and involvement of local people in the actual design of much of the public realm in particular.”
Council Leader, Willie Gibson, said: “To be shortlisted in these prestigious awards is testament to the determination the Council, our partners and the local community have to transform Irvine and provide a positive future for the town.
“It’s an exciting time for Irvine as all of these projects are really starting to take shape. The new-look Bridgegate is transformed and is now alive with business, shoppers and visitors.”
The are made by SURF, the Scottish Urban REgeneration Forum, in association with the Scottish Government, and recognise excellence and innovation in the sector.