Update on Seagate Castle works
Contractors will start a programme of scheduled works at Irvine’s historic Seagate Castle on Monday. (21 July)
These works are expected to last around 28 weeks and there will be occasional temporary traffic restrictions in place to accommodate the delivery of plant equipment. The works include:
- stonework conservation
- structural and supporting works to protect the structure’s stability and integrity and
- additional and new underground drainage works.
The castle overlooks Irvine’s oldest street, Seagate, and is an important part of the town’s heritage.
Scaffolding will be erected within the castle grounds, and this will be visible to passers-by and residents from Seagate in the coming weeks.
Quote: The council owns this important ancient monument and - as custodians of the building - it is our responsibility to preserve it for future generations. I would like to thank residents who live near the castle in advance for their patience while this vital project is ongoing.
Quote from: Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy
The castle is an Irvine Common Good Asset and last summer, the council agreed to allocate an additional £263,420 from the Irvine Common Good fund towards the works at the site near the River Irvine.
Surveys, investigations and provision of condition assessment reports have been carried out ahead of the works starting.
There have also been: ongoing meetings and discussions with Historic Environment Scotland, including on site and investigative works; archaeological digs, topographical reports, soil tests, tree removal and vegetation clearance.
The project aligns with two of the council’s priorities - Wellbeing and Communities and Local Democracy - by ensuring places and public spaces are well maintained and accessible, and also by respecting North Ayrshire’s local environment and cultural heritage.
Please note: Seagate Castle is owned by North Ayrshire Council. The third and final version was built in 1565 by Hugh Montgomerie, 3rd Earl of Eglinton as a home for him and his wife Agnes Drummond. The family arms can be seen on the ceiling bosses inside the front doorway. It is recorded that Mary Queen of Scots stayed at the castle in 1563. Seagate was abandoned as a residence in the 1740s and in 1945 was gifted to Irvine Burgh by former owner Mrs Jessie Walker.
Published: 18 July 2025