Proposals have been launched which will see the streets of Ayr town centre completely redesigned.
The future of the South Ayrshire town has been mapped out with the public getting their first look at how things will shape up.
The ground breaking Accessible Ayr project will see 19 streets completely transformed, with added cycle lanes along with space for walking and wheeling.
Streets include the town’s key locations, the High Street, Sandgate High St, Sandgate, Burns Statue Square as well as Station Road and River Street out with the main thoroughfare.
Business and residents on the earmarked streets were initially asked for their views and raised key concerns from empty shops, a lack of independent retailers and uneven pavements, accessibility, public transport issues, and a general lack of investment in the town centre.
The public are now set to have their say on the revamp which is set to make Ayr a “vibrant more attractive place for people to visit and enjoy.”
The views of residents and local businesses have been sought after plans were developed by South Ayrshire Council, Ayrshire Roads Alliance and Sustrans.
Public drop-in events are being held at town centre locations next week including the Grain Exchange on High Street and Ayr Central. Plans will also be available to view online.
Fiona Robertson of streets-UK who will be leading the consultations said: “This is an opportunity for the community to shape the plans for a town centre environment that they want and it’s also important for the designers to understand the change that is needed in order to take the proposals to the next level.”
Councillor Bob Pollock, economic development portfolio holder for South Ayrshire Council has urged residents to have their say on plans which would make Ayr more “attractive and welcoming”.
Councillor Pollock said: “These suggestions would significantly change the physical environment in Ayr Town Centre, making it easier to access for pedestrians and cyclists and making it a more attractive and welcoming place to visit and spend time.
“I would encourage members of the community and any business who have not engaged with the consultation so far to get involved.”
The project will be funded via Transport Scotland through Sustrans’ who are investing in projects which aim to create safer, healthier and more attractive places through active travel.
Daniel Prince, Senior Grant Advisor for Sustrans said: “Accessible Ayr is a ground breaking
project that will make walking, wheeling, and cycling easier and safer for everyone travelling in and out of the town centre.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with our partners on the project, as well as to hearing the ideas of people living and working in Ayr.”
The public will have until Monday, December 12 to provide any feedback either in person or online.
https://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/accessible-ayr
Those unable to access the website can get in touch with the team by email lesley@streets- uk.com or calling freephone 0800 987 5990.
Streets to be redesigned
- High Street
- Sandgate
- Kyle Street
- Alloway Street
- Newmarket Street
- Fort Street
- Carrick Street
- John Street
- Station Road
- Smith Street
- Burns State Square
- River Street
- Main Street
- King Street
- Allison Street
- Barns Crescent
- Wellington Square
- Pavilion Road
- Miller Road
How to have your say?
Grain Exchange, High Street, Ayr, Thursday, November 17. 12pm to 4pm.
Ayr Central Shopping Centre, Skye Square, Saturday, November 19. 12pm to 4pm.
Online from Monday, November 14 at https://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/accessible-ayr
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