A BID looks set for Irvine to potentially gain city status as part of next year's Queen's Jubilee celebrations.

Councillors will be asked to agree to authorise officers to explore a potential entry for Irvine to seek City status in the UK-wide competition during next year's Platinum celebrations – with officers advising Ayrshire's top town fits the criteria.

Cabinet meeting papers state: "The Platinum Jubilee provides an opportunity to work with local communities to enter a competition to apply for City Status.

"Irvine aligns with the criteria for the competition and a co-produced application in partnership with the local community, based on the previous applications for regeneration awards, will offer a strong element showing the depth of heritage as well as the forward thinking, kind and supportive approaches within the local community today.

"Information has been published inviting Local Authorities to apply for two separate honours as part of the Platinum Jubilee Civic Honours Competition. This includes competitions for City Status and Lord Mayor, or Provost, status.

Meeting papers add: "In 2022, Her Majesty the Queen will be the first British monarch to have reached the milestone of 70 years on the throne. To mark this achievement, it is anticipated that Platinum Jubilee celebrations will be organised to reflect on Her Majesty’s reign and commitment to public service, and her impact on the UK and the world since 1952.

"To mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, celebrations are to be held across the UK and the Commonwealth throughout the year but with a focus on Thursday 2 June to Sunday 5 June 2022.

"North Ayrshire Council is keen to plan ahead in order to realise the full potential of the opportunity presented by the Platinum Jubilee.

"Early engagement by Connected Communities with communities and partners will ensure that local communities maximise the opportunity to enhance civic pride and build capacity through participation and community leadership.

"A budget of £25,000 from existing Connected Communities funding has been identified to support the community led events using participatory approaches.

"The proposed literacy and arts-based activity will also be met from existing budgets.

"It is anticipated that the additional public holiday would cost approximately £64,000 and the changes from a "floating” to a "fixed” public holiday may incur additional costs.