A MAJOR step has been taken to rejuvenate the derelict harbour area of a faded Clydeside resort.

The 40-acre site at Ardrossan - which has been an eyesore for years - is to be transformed by building new homes, shops, bars, cafes and restaurants and an extended marina.

This week the 19th century listed pumphouse building, which has lain unused for years, was reopened as a bar and bistro.

The new restaurant was opened by the Cecchini family, who have had bars in Ayrshire for the past 20 years.

It is part of a £50million plan to regenerate the Ayrshire town which in 2006 was shortlisted for a carbuncle award as one of the most dismal places to live.

The blueprint for the town is a joint initiative involving Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, Clydeport, Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire and North Ayrshire Council.

Patrick Wiggins, chief executive of IBRC, said: "Our main objective is to make the area a far more desirable place in which to live, work and visit.

"Over many years Clydeport has made a major contribution to regeneration in the harbour area which has also benefited the town.

"The Cecchini family has transformed the pumphouse, which has been lying derelict, into a vibrant, family restaurant."

Anthony Cecchini said: "Clyde Marina will bring new shops and houses, which together with the marina will attract many people here."

A spokesman for North Ayrshire Council said: "This opening shows continuing confidence in the regeneration of the Irvine Bay area."