Van Oord, Mackley make progress at Millport Scheme

Work is moving forward at the £48 million Millport Flood Protection Scheme on the Isle of Cumbrae, said North Ayrshire Council.

Construction works started in the spring and the recent focus has been on installing the onshore flood walls.

Offshore works are now underway and will involve the construction of breakwaters between small offshore islands.

The breakwaters will create a calm area of water, and this is essential to allow a proposed marina – which is an Ayrshire Growth Deal project – to be constructed in the future.

The marina proposals are currently being developed and the intention is that construction will follow on after the completion of the flood protection scheme.

The main contractor for the flood protection work is Van Oord, with support from subsidiary Mackley.

Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, said: “It is great to see progress being made on this project, which is crucial for strengthening the shoreline and protecting the community from potential flooding.”

“The seawalls will act as barriers to protect buildings from strong waves and tides, while the breakwaters are key in helping to prevent coastal erosion by blocking waves.”

“Once completed, this protection scheme will last for decades and offer residents peace of mind.”

The Scottish Government is contributing 80 per cent towards the overall costs, with the Council meeting the rest.