Commuters and local drivers are being warned that the B714 will be closed from Monday 27 July as contractors move into a crucial phase of a major improvement scheme. The closure is expected to remain in place for up to 14 months while alignment and engineering works are carried out.
What drivers need to know
Motorists will be directed to follow a signed diversion via the B780, which officers say will add roughly 3.6 miles and about seven minutes to a typical journey. The authority has apologised for the inconvenience but stresses the closure is necessary to allow the work to proceed safely.
- Closure starts: Monday 27 July
- Estimated additional distance: 3.6 miles (via B780)
- Estimated additional time: around seven minutes
- Possible duration: up to 14 months
Project details and funding
The works form the first phase of a larger scheme valued at £34.7 million to upgrade the route linking the A78 Sharphill roundabout to the A737 south of Dalry. Phase 1 concentrates on a 3.5km stretch between Girthill Farm and a new roundabout on Kilwinning Road. Planned improvements include a 500m westbound overtaking lane, targeted realignments of the carriageway and several environmental enhancements.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total cost (Phase 1) | £34.7 million |
| Levelling Up Fund contribution | £23.7 million |
| Delivery partner | Wills Bros |
| Expected completion | Winter 2027 |
Funding for the work combines money from the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund with council resources. Construction is being carried out by Wills Bros and the council says the improvements will strengthen strategic links to Glasgow and the wider central belt.
"The B714 upgrade will bring massive long-term benefits by improving road safety, cutting future journey times, and creating a much more reliable route. We understand that the road closure will cause inconvenience to commuters and local people, and we are sorry for the disruption this may bring to daily journeys. We would like to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation during the course of closure."
— Councillor Eleanor Collier, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy
Local impact and context
For residents and businesses in and around Dalry, Kilwinning and neighbouring communities the upgrade promises long-term gain but short-term disruption. The B714 forms a strategic link between the A78 and A737 and is used by commuters, freight and local traffic accessing services, schools and workplaces. While the diversion is relatively short in added mileage and time, it will be important for regular users to factor the change into travel plans, particularly at peak hours.
The council has signposted further information on its website and encouraged people to check for updates as works progress. Local drivers planning trips through the area over the coming months should allow extra time and follow the signed diversion routes.
Work on the wider programme is expected to continue through to winter 2027, with further stages to follow once Phase 1 is completed.
