Demolition of would-be flats in the town centre on a future public events site is “one too many”, claims a conservation charity.
Kyle and Carrick Civic Society have appealed to councillors to save 8-10 High Street, on the soon-to-be developed Riverside site, and “use it as a catalyst for housing regeneration in the town centre”.
Council chiefs have confirmed they propose to demolish the building- said to have ‘major structural issues’- as building new affordable homes as part of the project is “not financially viable”.
But the Society say “it is time for conservation not demolition.”
Michael Hitchon MBE, President of Kyle and Carrick Civic Society, said: “We were alarmed at the suggestion to ditch the housing element planned at Ayr Riverside Public Events Space AND to destroy the existing three flats in 8-10 High Street- a neglected but not dangerous building.
“Buildings in far worse condition have been rescued before- like Lady Cathcart’s House in the Sandgate.
“We’re very anxious that whatever goes there is suitable for the sensitive setting; with listed buildings, the Town Hall, New Brig and Auld Brig.
The ongoing Riverside site saga hopes to see a public events space and gardens erected along the High Street and River Ayr spot.
The public will get to have their say on the proposals when a planning application is submitted next month.
Michael said: “There’s nothing wrong with the events space and having an outdoor garden- that’s a lovely idea.
“But this is just one demolition too many.
“The key to restoration of historic towns is housing.
“Housing is in demand and it’s a sad loss of further accommodation.
“It’s time they started thinking conservation in the conservation area.
“To see a bit of work done on the building would be inspirational to the whole community to see something positive happening.”
A Council spokesperson said: “We’re planning to start transforming the site into an exciting events space early next summer, and the public will get to have their say on the proposals when a planning application is submitted next month.
“Unfortunately, building new affordable homes as part of the project, is not financially viable for the housing revenue account at this time.
“Feedback from the consultation exercise, suggested that we should not be providing additional housing as part of the project and on this site.
“A recent condition survey report of the building at 8-10 high street found major structural issues, so it is proposed to demolish the building to facilitate the development of the site.
“This course of action is supported by Fort, Seafield & Wallacetown Community Council, who consider the building to be unsightly and dangerous.”
