Ayrshire Shoreline Management Plan

The Ayrshire Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) was adopted by North Ayrshire Council and South Ayrshire Council in 2018. The SMP provides a large-scale assessment of the risks associated with coastal processes and information about the future management of these risks. The plan:

• prompts land use and policy changes
• recommends studies to allow future physical protective measures

The Ayrshire SMP extends from Skelmorlie to the Galloway Burn, on the North-East edge of Loch Ryan. The islands of Arran and Great Cumbrae are included.

The following documents are available to view at North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine, KA12 8EE:

• Ayrshire Shoreline Management Plan
• Ayrshire SMP SEA Environmental Report
• Ayrshire SMP SEA Statement
• Ayrshire SMP Appendix A
• Ayrshire SMP Appendix B
• Ayrshire SMP Appendix C
• Ayrshire SMP Appendix D
• Ayrshire SMP Appendix E
• Ayrshire SMP Consultation Summary

Work to replace the adopted SMP is under way. The emerging plan will take account of predicted effects of climate change and recommendations contained in the Scottish Government Coastal Change Adaption Plan guidance.

Coastal Change Adaptation Plans

Local Coastal Change Adaptation Plans document (‘Local CCA Plans’) have been completed for:

• Sandylands Promenade and Stevenston Beach
• Irvine Harbour and Irvine Beach

These plans have been completed in accordance with the coastal adaptation planning guidance published by the Scottish Government in 2023 and to take account of the improved national and local predictions of coastal change. The Local CCA Plans identify policies, triggers, and actions to help plan and respond to the changing shoreline. A CCAP technical report document is also available.