A PROPOSAL to upgrade the main road through Fairlie - which could have closed the A78 for weeks - has been dropped.

Campaigners have said the trunk road through the village, which also acts as a major thoroughfare for industrial traffic to Hunterston, is in need of urgent repairs due to heavy goods vehicles and general wear and tear.

There had been calls for a full closure to allow for upgrading work bit the road will now be closed for two weekends later this year to allow for smaller scale repairs.

Councillor Ian Murdoch has been in contact with road maintenance operators Transerv regarding the forthcoming works.

It is understood that the scale of the long term work required was because of a number of underlying factors, including drainage issues under properties and utilities.

Discussions had been taking place to decide whether to carry out a holding treatment or the full remedial works, which would have meant a total road closure through Fairlie for a number of weeks, was necessary.

Cllr. Murdoch told the News:"Transerv and Transport Scotland have decided to go for the shorter life solution as a 20-year scheme would require closing the main road for weeks as they would have to carry out major works to utilities.

"The shorter life scheme will only require weekend closures.

"Transerv will be in touch soon with community councils and elected members to discuss the full plans."

There are two schemes proposed for Fairlie, one from the bowling club to School Brae (850m) and a second from The Causeway to Montgomerie Crescent (570m).

Each scheme with the reduced treatment will require a weekend closure, with the first in mid/late October and the second likely in early/mid November.”

A Scotland TranServ spokesperson said: “Scotland TranServ will shortly consult stakeholders on the proposed resurfacing of the A78 at Fairlie.

"Through routine network inspections and working with our customers, we have identified a number of issues with this stretch of the carriageway. As such, it is our plan to resurface approximately 900m of the trunk road. We will consult community representatives on the scheduling of the project to help minimise the impact on commuters and businesses.”