Project Overview

Client

North Ayrshire Council

Designer / Consultancy

AECOM

Construction Period

February 2026 – Ongoing

Budget

£20-25M

Project Overview

The B714 links the trunk road network from the A78 Sharphill roundabout (Three Towns bypass) to the A737, south of Dalry. It is a vital link for road users travelling to the west coast and ferry links to Arran and Cumbrae. The upgrade of the B714 will:

  • Improve connectivity between North Ayrshire and Glasgow, the Central Belt, and wider motorway network.
  • Increase the potential for tourism and economic development.
  • Provide better links to ferry services.
  • Contribute to the re-population of islands and rural areas.
  • Ensure that those living in rural, remote, and island communities are well connected and have equitable access to services.
  • Divert a significant volume of traffic away from Kilwinning.

“We’re delighted to confirm that the UK Government has agreed to grant unconditional approval of our Full Business Case for the B714 Upgrade Scheme. This is one of the final pieces in the jigsaw for what will be a transformational investment into our roads network, with benefits for communities from the Three Towns right through to Dalry and the Garnock Valley. Upgrading the B714 will significantly improve road connectivity between North Ayrshire and other parts of Scotland, particularly to Glasgow and the central belt, helping to provide better road links and encourage investment in the area.”

Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy

 

“Breaking ground on this project is a hugely positive moment for our communities. The B714 upgrade has been years in the making and it’s fantastic to see work now under way. This investment will deliver real and lasting benefits – improving safety, cutting journey times and creating a more reliable and resilient route between our towns and the wider region. It represents a major boost for residents, businesses and anyone who relies on this important connection.

Councillor Eleanor Collier, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy 

Ground breaking ceremony image (C)North Ayrshire Council

Key Numbers

  • Re-alignment of a 3.5km section of B714 between Girthill Farm and a proposed roundabout on Kilwinning Road, adjacent to the Hillend Roundabout (A737/Kilwinning Road)
  • Re-aligned junctions improving visibility for vehicles on the B714 and those waiting to join the B714
  • 9.3m wide single carriageway cross section, comprising two 3.65m lanes with a 1m hard-strip at each side between Girthill Farm and Craighead Farm
  • Additional 3m wide overtaking lane on the uphill gradient, between the proposed roundabout at Kilwinning Road and Craighead Farm