With the first phase of the £34.7 million programme for the road network reaching a milestone, commuters and drivers have been asked to be prepared for a major diversion which is set to go ahead in July to enable the B714 upgrade to move forward.

A full closure of the B714 will be implemented from 27 July 2026, to enable the required engineering and alignment works to go ahead safely. At present, it is anticipated that the closure could last up to a year and two months. 

It has been recommended that drivers and commuters, during this period, should follow the clearly signed formal diversion routes. 

Councillor Eleanor Collier, cabinet member for green environment and economy, said: “The diversion route via the B780 West Kilbride Road to Munnoch Road has been arranged to minimise any disruption caused, bringing an addition of around 3.6 miles and around seven minutes to the original journey duration.”

The B714 connects the trunk road network from the A78 Sharphill roundabout at the Three Towns bypass to the A737, south of Dalry.

The upgrade has been jointly funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund and North Ayrshire Council. 

The initial phase focuses on upgrading a 3.5km section between Girthill Farm and a new roundabout on Kilwinning Road, bringing in a new 500m westbound overtaking lane and localized road realignments.

When the upgrade is completed, it will boost connections with Glasgow and the wider central belt. 

Phase 1’s total cost is £34.7 million, with £23.7 million gained through the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund and the rest being funded by North Ayrshire Council.

Wills Bros is delivering the construction, which is anticipated to reach overall completion by winter next year.