Plans have been lodged to create a new wetland haven in Stevenston.
It is hoped the large proposed water area on Ardeer Quarry Local Nature Reserve would become a regular haunt for ducks, Whooper Swans and other winged visitors.
The shallow wetland would measure one hectare.
The F.R.I.E.N.D.S. group have also applied for planning permission to use the spoil from the work to create a sandy mound for nesting bees and wasps.
A statement on the plan from F.R.I.E.N.D.S. said: “The project is part of our continuing attempts to make Ardeer Quarry Local Nature Reserve a regionally important wildlife attraction with woods, ponds, meadows and a complete path network.”
It added: “The proposed wetland is particularly important when considered in the context of historic wetland habitat loss in Stevenston. Since the 1970’s, the majority of Stevenston’s wetland habitats have been drained. This trend continues today.
"Recently, large, biodiverse wetland in the town was completely filled-in, and several other large wetlands are threatened by development aspirations.”
It is expected ducks such as Mallard, Teal and Wigeon will appear regularly on the wetland alongside less common species Gadwall and Whooper Swan.
The summary document on the wetland proposal said: “By improving a local urban green space and making it a more interesting and enjoyable place to visit, we will hopefully improve the quality of experience of the great many local people who visit Ardeer Quarry regularly.”
Much has already been achieved to boost biodiversity at the quarry. The group have created a path, bridge, wildflower meadow, two woods, large orchard and bee nesting bank.
The planning application is being considered by North Ayrshire Council.
