Provost Report
North Ayrshire Council · 25 March 2026
Back to North Ayrshire Council — 25 March 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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OFFICIAL INFORMATION OFFICIAL INFORMATION PROVOST’S REPORT For the period covering: 2 February – 15 March 2026 The attached report gives a summary and brief details to Council, of meetings and events attended by the Provost of North Ayrshire Council, Councillor Anthea Dickson.
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PROVOST’S REPORT • • • 1 OFFICIAL INFORMATION OFFICIAL INFORMATION PROVOST’S REPORT For the period covering: 2 February – 15 March 2026 Since the last meeting of the Council, I have taken part in many events, including: Official Opening of Millport Flood Protection Scheme, Isle of Cumbrae, 2 February On 2 February, I was delighted to attend the plaque unveiling at the Millport Flood Protection Scheme. This landmark, £48m project, delivered by our Neighbourhood Services staff and partners, will make a huge difference to the people of Millport and wider Cumbrae. The Scheme will help against the increased threat of coastal flooding. Irvine Beat FM Interview, Irvine, 6 February On 6 February, I went along to Irvine Beat FM to be interviewed on the success of the recent Beat the Street Event. It was great to meet the people behind the radio station and hear about the ways they support the local community including the raising awareness of many community events and initiatives. Garnock Valley Pipes and Drums Ceilidh, Geilsland Estate, Beith,14 February On 14 February, I attended the Garnock Valley Pipes and Drums Ceilidh in Beith. It was great to see the band thriving and being supported by other local groups. This was an excellent fundraising event which was attended by many. Spirit Of Arran Tartan Presentation, Largs Primary School, 16 February On 16 February, I was in Largs Primary School to recognise the School’s contribution to the development of the Spirit of Brazil tartan. Working alongside the Brazilian Consulate, the pupils played a vital role in bringing the unique design to life. The entire school was enthused, discovering the history, geography, colour and vibrancy of Brazil and the links we have through football. The special tartan, designed by Indie, was revealed at the event.
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PROVOST’S REPORT • • • 2 OFFICIAL INFORMATION OFFICIAL INFORMATION Young Musician of the Year, Saltcoats Town Hall, 19 February On 20 January, I was delighted to attend the North Ayrshire Young Musician of the Year event in Saltcoats Town Hall. We were treated to a series of excellent performances that highlighted the dedication and commitment of our music students. Congratulations to Jake Kenny from Garnock Campus, who was the overall winner with his exceptional bass guitar performance. The evening showcased a fantastic range of talent, making it an unenviable task for the judges to choose a winner. Well done to all the musicians who took part. Burns Art Competition, Dalry Primary School, 20 and 21 February On 20 February, I had the pleasure of visiting Dalry Primary School for their wonderful recitations and artistic interpretation at the annual Dalry Burns Club competition. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and talent of the pupils as they celebrated Scotland’s literary heritage. On 21 February, the performers and singers came together at Dalry Community Centre for a thoroughly enjoyable event. The afternoon highlighted not only the eagerness of our young people but also the dedication and support of the staff who make these opportunities possible. Mr and Mrs Monaghan’s Diamond Wedding Anniversary, Beith, 4 March On 4 March, I visited Mr and Mrs Monaghan at their home in Beith to celebrate their Diamond Wedding Anniversary. It was a pleasure to meet the couple and mark this wonderful milestone, and to enjoy a chat with them about times gone by. Ardrossan & Largs Sea Cadets Biannual Royal Navy Parade, Civic Centre, Ardrossan, 4 March On 4 March, I was delighted to attend Ardrossan and Largs Sea Cadets Unit Review in Ardrossan Civic Centre. The interest and engagement shown by the cadets was very clear in all aspects of their work and presentation. The cadets are a credit to their officers and families, and the officers are to be commended for their dedication and commitment in supporting these young people. Older Peoples Voice Conference, Redburn Centre, Irvine, 6 March On 6 March, I attended the Older People’s Voice Conference at the Redburn Centre, Irvine The event was more than discussion – it was about celebrating the strength, wisdom, and contributions of older people across North Ayrshire. It shone a light on the vibrant communities we are all part of, and the extraordinary work carried out every day by volunteers, local groups, and partner organisations.
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PROVOST’S REPORT • • • 3 OFFICIAL INFORMATION OFFICIAL INFORMATION ASIF IGNITE, Bridgend Motor Group, Kilwinning, 12 March On 12 March, the Depute Provost presented certificates to graduates of the Introduction to the Motor Trade project, which began in January at the Bridgend Motor Group in Kilwinning. The Ayrshire Skills Investment Fund (ASIF) is an Ayrshire Growth Deal project that supports skills development for priority groups. The programme provides an opportunity to increase business productivity while developing the skills needed to meet current and future industry requirements. The Depute Provost heard from staff at Bridgend Motor Group and learned about the graduates’ experience of the programme. Therapeutic Arts Exhibition, Harbour Arts Centre, Irvine, 13 March On 13 March, the Depute Provost attended the Therapeutic Arts Exhibition in the Harbour Arts Centre. This marked the culmination of a series of classes arranged by The Scottish Centre for Personal Safety. The artwork reflected not only the artists’ personal experiences but also the feelings and challenges within the wider community. The event helped build understanding and awareness of the mental health issues that affect so many people. The artwork on display was outstanding, and the Depute Provost had the opportunity to hear the individual stories. Councillor Anthea Dickson Provost North Ayrshire Council