By developing the former Ailsa-Troon site, with the help of South Ayrshire Council and Enterprise Ayrshire, we hope to take the development of Troon Harbour - which has enjoyed something of a 'renaissance' in recent years - a step further. The shipyard will be used for ship repair - which will tie in with other activities in the harbour - and other port-related business.'

Andy Hill, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: 'The acquisition of the former Ailsa-Troon shipyard by ABP, and the announcement of the intention to re-activate the yard for ship repair and other port-related business, really is tremendous news which I warmly welcome. I congratulate ABP on its initiative.'

Evelyn McCann, Chief Executive of Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire, said: 'This is great news and we are delighted that the shipyard is being brought back to life. We look forward to working with ABP to maximise the opportunities for new jobs and new prosperity that this development will create. The port at Troon is a focal point for the local economy and this shipyard development continues the good work which has been done to regenerate the harbourside.'

Troon is now an established major ferry port. Sea Containers Irish Sea Operations has been running a passenger service to Northern Ireland from the port since April 1999, and P&O Irish Sea's Scotland/Ireland freight service has been operating out of Troon since July 2001.