I would like to take this opportunity to wish all my constituents a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year.   

I know that 2023 was a difficult year for many, and my sincere hope is that 2024 will bring improvements to the lives of all those who have been struggling financially, personally or emotionally.

As the council’s Mental Health Champion, I am aware that this time of year can heighten mental health issues and I am happy to be contacted by anyone in North Ayrshire who feels they would like additional support.  

On a more cheerful note, I was delighted to be a “top-table guest” at Saltcoats Old People’s Welfare Christmas dinner last month. I can truthfully say that a great time was had by all!

I am aware of all the hard work involved in organising such an event and I have great admiration for all the members of the committee who gave of their time to ensure that the occasion was flawless, from the lovely meal down to the special little touches like the Christmas cards and the table settings.

All the organisers are volunteers whose only aim is to do something good for our community, and for this, they must be commended.  

On the subject of happy occasions, I was privileged to say a few words at the unveiling of a new mural in Dalry painted by local artist Tragic O’Hara, who painted the wonderful mural we have in Saltcoats.

The images incorporated into his new work were devised by the local Youth Forum on the theme of kindness. I was, to coin a phrase, “bowled over” by the creativity of our young people and their acknowledgement that words and deeds can impact on the mental health of others. 

Another positive to report is that the new Afton Court Development in Stevenston was officially opened earlier this month. I had the honour of being invited into one of the new accessible homes and to meet some of the residents, all of whom are extremely happy with their lovely new “green” homes.   

I was delighted to be instrumental in having the zebra crossing at Morrison’s in Stevenston reinstated.

A number of constituents, mainly from the Hawkhill estate, had contacted me with concerns that the area - with its almost obliterated road markings - was “an accident waiting to happen.” Having driven through that crossing many times myself I can't help but agree!  

Members of Saltcoats Active Lifestyle Team (SALT) also have some good news. After countless meetings and discussions on the matter, we have finally secured CCTV coverage of the area around the "Pirate Park" at Winton Circus.

The cameras will soon be installed and will hopefully prevent misuse of this hard-fought-for community asset, as well as make the promenade a safer place for all. Again, my thanks to SALT for all their hard work. 

If anyone wishes to consult me about any local issue, please contact me by phone or email. I am also happy to meet with constituents personally at a suitable time and place.   

You can phone 07976 657608 or email jeanmcclung@north-ayrshire.gov.uk