A war of words is brewing between Councillors over the proposals to build a new Magnum.

Nov 30 2012 by Ross Dunn, Irvine Herald

At the first Irvine Town Centre Tenants and Residents Association meeting last week the public expressed their concerns over the proposals for a new leisure centre in Irvine’s town centre.

Residents from Parterre raised health and safety concerns over the proposed new leisure centre that’s set to be built next to the Townhouse.

Councillor David O’Neill waded in on residents’ concerns over the parking situation, commenting:

“People going to the new Magnum will be taking part in exercise, therefore a five minute walk won’t do them any harm.”

Local Community Councillor Gordon Bain hit back at O’Neill’s comments at the Save the Magnum meeting, branding them “misguided”.

“The problem with that is having to walk through lanes - so I don’t think people will feel too safe having to walk through dark lanes at night to get to and from this proposed new leisure centre.

“I think his comments are a bit misguided. People use the leisure centre to maintain fitness or to get fit, they’re not looking for a walk through a dark alley,” he added.

As the war of words between Councillors and MPs brew, The Save the Magnum Campaign revealed that North Ayrshire Council Leader, Willie Gibson has agreed to meet with campaigners to discuss their concerns - a meeting has yet to be confirmed by the group.

The next Save the Magnum meeting will take place on Thursday, December 13 at 7.30pm in The Ship Inn.