ELEVEN months of work will start soon on the A78 near Largs as Scottish Water begins installation of nearly two miles of new pipes.

The utility company says the £2 million investment will see the current cast-iron water main in the Skelmorlie area replaced.

The existing main is in a poor condition and is becoming increasingly vulnerable to bursts.

The work is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, May 7.

Scottish Water says a convoy system will be used to manage traffic while work is taking place between 8am and 5pm, while temporary traffic lights will be used overnight.

Greenock Telegraph: An 11-month project to install nearly two miles of new pipework along the A78 from Wemyss Bay towards Skelmorlie.is to begin on May 7An 11-month project to install nearly two miles of new pipework along the A78 from Wemyss Bay towards Skelmorlie.is to begin on May 7 (Image: Kenneth Gibson)

Road closures will be required on Castle Road and Meigle Road in Skelmorlie towards the end of the project for approximately two weeks.

All Skelmorlie residents will be notified via letter drop and there will also be a targeted social and traditional media campaign.

Local MSP Kenneth Gibson said: “I’m pleased that work to upgrade the water main will soon begin.

Greenock Telegraph: MSP Kenneth Gibson: I’m pleased that work to upgrade the water main will soon begin.MSP Kenneth Gibson: I’m pleased that work to upgrade the water main will soon begin. (Image: Newsquest)

“Many Skelmorlie constituents have contacted me about this issue, particularly last January when a water burst affected an estimated 12,000 properties across Skelmorlie and Inverclyde.

“Scottish Water expect disruption to traffic to be ‘minimal’ during works, with passage for blue light services being safeguarded.

“Bottled water will be provided to residents in case of interruption of supply. People with special needs will be given extra consideration.

“For planned interruptions of supply, all affected households will be notified by letter in advance.”