Tree clearance works have begun at the i3 Business Park in Irvine to allow North Ayrshire Council to continue their development of business premises at one of the region’s key strategic sites.
The i3 area plays a key role in supporting economic growth, primarily through Ayrshire Growth Deal funding. Investment at the site is focused on delivering modern, flexible workspace to support local businesses, attract inward investment and create jobs.
A first phase has been developed – with official completion of construction reached this month and the completion of a lease for the first tenant expected soon. The Council are now progressing the second stage of the development which like the first phase, will be the subject of approval of the project’s Full Business Case. In addition to the Ayrshire Growth Deal, this next phase is supported by significant funding from the UK Government’s Local Regeneration Fund.
The tree works are being carried out in accordance with planning permission that has already been granted for the development and are being undertaken as an early phase of works prior to the bird nesting season. As part of the planning process, the project was subject to detailed environmental and technical assessment, including an Ecological Impact Assessment. Planning consent includes conditions requiring replacement tree and shrub planting to compensate for those removed. This replacement planting will be primarily native species appropriate to the local environment.
The replacement planting will enhance biodiversity, improve habitat connectivity and strengthen the long-term quality of green infrastructure within the business park.
“The flexible office space will provide a range of units suitable for start ups, growing businesses, research and development activity and advanced manufacturing. We are delighted that we are at the second phase of these works and look forward to this area being a real hub of activity. It is an exciting time and the plans for the area are a key part of the Ayrshire Growth Deal. We also recognise the importance of balancing environmental considerations with the need to invest in employment land that supports the local economy. This Flexible Space project represents a planned and assessed development that will deliver long term economic and environmental benefits,” said Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Economy and Green Environment.