A masterplan is being launched to save Ayr from its current ‘crisis’.
Led by local professionals, a steering group completely independent of the council hopes to bring forward a bright new future.
And they aim to restore the South Ayrshire capital to its previous status of being a “vibrant and prosperous county town.”
Ayrshire Heritage Trust Limited, which will be established later this year, has launched its strategic plan in a bid to revive Ayr’s local economy and promote 'Visions of a new Ayr'.
Ayrshire Live can today reveal the wheels are in motion for the public to have their say during a three-month consultation which can help generate new ideas and breathe fresh life into Ayr.
SeeAYR hopes to transform the riches of the town with the trust launching its ambitious prospectus and masterplan.
The proposal is set to link Ayr’s historical and cultural heritage along with creating new pathways and exciting projects that will create jobs and transform the town into a “world class destination”.
SeeAYR sets out the vision to link Ayr, Newton and Prestwick promenade – creating an ‘Active Coast’ – which will see a new harbour, cycle and footbridge.
A nod to Robert Burns will also be considered with a vision of linking Alloway and Ayr to create a history walk that will weave through the town.
Other suggestions put forward are a national curling museum at Rozelle with Ayrshire recognised as the home of the winter sport.
The trust hopes to reignite interest in the crumbling Station Hotel with proposals to set up a new main station at Newton and use the hotel as a place to showcase iconic steam trains which can leave from Ayr to head along the Ayrshire coast.
At the heart of the proposals, SeeAYR is focused on creating jobs by developing the leisure, heritage and cultural sectors.
Secretary for the Ayrshire Heritage Trust John Dunlop told Ayrshire Live: “The town of Ayr is in crisis.
"The local economy is stagnating; tourism continues to decline; too much local money is spent outside of the metropolitan area of Ayr and Prestwick; there is insufficient inward investment in the town and the town’s fine Georgian and Victorian heritage is under threat.
“SeeAYR will be the single-biggest innovation programme in Scotland; a programme embracing best business practice and continuous improvement.”
“Anyone interested in the three-month consultation has been invited to offer their suggestions during the first phase.”
The full prospectus is available at www.seeayr.org
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