Five shops in West Kilbride have been picked to have a makeover as part of the third round of a new scheme.

We previously reported that North Ayrshire Council’s Shopfront Improvement Scheme aims to improve shopfronts across the town.

The project, which originally started in 2020, had an allocated budget of £85,000 and received 33 expressions of interest from local businesses.

It has now been confirmed that five shopfronts have been chosen for improvements and refurbishment works in the West Kilbride Conservation Area.

These include The King's Arms, Noodle Cafe, The Twa Dugs, The Kandy Bar and Fyrefly Gallery.

The first shop set to undergo repair works in the third phase is the Noodle Cafe, in 55 Main Street, where ZM Architecture is planning to fit new roller shutters, mason cornicing and signage as part of the works.

The planning application, which can be found on North Ayrshire Council's website, states: "The following submission is part of a larger improvement programme comprising repairs to five shopfronts, funded by North Ayrshire Council.

"Modest repairs and decoration works are proposed with the aim to enhance the appearance of the wider streetscape.

"The scope of works comprises masonry and joinery repairs and decoration, new signage and change of colour - these works are subject to the physical condition and needs of each specific shopfront."

It is anticipated the grant scheme will be for 100% funding of agreed improvement works, up to a maximum level per property unit.

The level of grant funding available to each property will be subject to the total number of projects, priority assessment, extent and scope of works, tender returns and available funding.

Conservative Councillor Todd Ferguson: "It's great news that five more brilliant local businesses are being included in phase three of the West Kilbride Shopfront Improvement Scheme.

"Following on from the previous two phases the new project will focus on improving the look and feel of businesses along Main Street. 

“The ongoing town regeneration project is vital and is breathing new life into these buildings. When finished it will provide a welcoming environment for the people who live, work, and visit West Kilbride.

“Investing in our communities improves lives and our High Streets are unique and cherished places that are valued by local people of all ages. We know how much they mean to communities, and it makes all the difference to the tourism trade which will take back positive memories and spread the word to friends and families about their experiences. 

“Town Regeneration is all about restoring pride in the places people call home and I’m delighted to continue supporting North Ayrshire Council to deliver these positive initiatives.”