Construction work underway on £34.7m B714 upgrade

Construction work to deliver a major upgrade to one of North Ayrshire’s most important roads is now officially underway.

A groundbreaking event yesterday (Thursday, 12 March 2026) officially marked the start of construction on the first phase of the B714 upgrade.

This follows the UK Government’s formal approval of North Ayrshire Council’s Full Business Case for the project, paving the way for the £34.7million investment to move ahead.

The transformational scheme will bring substantial improvements to a key artery between the Three Towns and the Garnock Valley, strengthening North Ayrshire’s strategic links with Glasgow and the wider central belt.

Local Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood MP: “We’re pleased to support the B714 upgrade in North Ayrshire with £23.69 million of UK Government funding.

“This investment will reduce traffic volumes on the A737 by 11% and deliver safer travel for people within North Ayrshire, driving growth and improving access to jobs on a key route between the Three Towns and the wider Glasgow city region.

“I look forward to working with the council and local partners to deliver these improvements for the people of North Ayrshire.”

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

The first phase of the proposals – to be delivered by the appointed contractors Wills Bros - includes upgrading a 3.5km section of the B714 between Girthill Farm and a new roundabout on Kilwinning Road.

The works involve localised realignment of the existing road, a new 500m westbound overtaking lane and a series of environmental improvements.

Jonathan Wills, Director at Wills Bros, said: “We are delighted to be working with North Ayrshire Council to deliver this important upgrade to the B714. Breaking ground marks the first step in delivering this long-awaited project.

“It will not only provide vital infrastructure but also create opportunities, support local communities and leave a positive legacy for the area.”

Construction is currently expected to be completed by winter 2027.

A second phase, which will be the subject of a separate future funding bid, would deliver improvements from Girthill Farm to the A78 Sharphill Roundabout.