PLANS to restore a rotting ex-pub in Irvine have moved a step closer this week.

North Ayrshire Council have revealed that talks have started between the owners of the dilapidated former Ruby Tuesdays in the town centre and council chiefs about plans to regenerate the derelict building.

The Times told in February how the council promised to monitor the state of the building after a number of complaints by residents not only with to its run-down appearance but about safety concerns over it’s loading bay.

But the council insist that the Vision for Irvine initiative - which aims to build on the recent investment to the town centre - will play a part in helping to restore the building.

Many residents, including members of Irvine Community Council, have voiced their dismay about the state of the former pub, believing that it detracts from the newly refurbished Bridgegate just yards away.

The council agree with the residents’ view and are now calling on the owners to act quickly to decide their preferred outcome.

A compulsory purchase order on the derelict building may still be carried out but the council hope that a resolution can be reached sooner rather than later.

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “We agree that the condition of the former Ruby Tuesdays building detracts from the significant improvements implemented by the Irvine Bay Regeneration Company and North Ayrshire Council in Irvine town centre.

“Whilst the council is not responsible for any repair or replacement required as a result of neglect by the owners, we have carried out a number of emergency repairs to the property in recent years. This has included works to make safe utilities connections and the improvement of paved areas which constituted a health and safety risk.

“A representative acting on behalf of the owners of the property has entered into preliminary discussions with the Council regarding options for regenerating the area, which would resolve the issues of dereliction.

“The onus is now on the owners to complete their options analysis and to present their findings for further discussion, with a view to them progressing their preferred option.

“Ultimately, and given the unacceptable condition of the building over a long period of time, more comprehensive options will also be considered, including the potential for compulsory purchase of the building by the council.

“In a wider sense and in determining priorities for action, NAC continue to develop proposals for the next phase of the regeneration of Irvine and are committed to comprehensive public engagement in this process through the Working Together for Irvine Group.” Irvine MP Brian Donohoe is calling for immediate action to restore the building, describing it as an “embarrassment”.

The Central Ayrshire politician is also concerned about the set of concrete steps at the side of the building, believing they are a health and safety risk during the winter months.

He said: “This sorry building sticks out like a sore thumb in a town centre which is otherwise looking great. It is an embarrassment.

“I can’t understand why this one derelict unit has been allowed to spoil the appearance of a shopping centre which won a national landscaping award only a few weeks ago. The pub has lain empty for six or seven years now.

“I accept there can be confusion over property ownership when a business closes but surely North Ayrshire Council and Irvine Bay have had ample time to sort this. Perhaps they need to go down the route of compulsory purchase and then work on securing another tenant in what is a prime location. I am sure it will be much easier to attract a business now that Bridgegate has been given a new lease of life.

“I had a walk round the place at the weekend and was disappointed to see that the empty building has been taken over by pigeons. The entrance is piled up with bird droppings which must pose a health risk. It also looks disgusting in a busy shopping area.

“In addition, I have had complaints from constituents about the staircase at the side of the building. The steps are made of concrete and are slippery in winter, especially when it’s icy and the gritters don’t reach that far. At night, the quality of street lighting is poor and this makes the stairs even more difficult to negotiate.

“I am calling on the authorities to tackle this eyesore now – and well before work starts on the next stage of the town centre regeneration plan.”