An ex-primary school should be turned into a museum documenting the history and heritage of Ayrshire, says a new steering group.
The Museum of Ayrshire group hope to transform the former Ayr Grammar School, on Midton Road, into a tourist hub for others to learn about the region.
Dr Jimmy Begg, secretary of Museum of Ayrshire, said on behalf of the group: “Lying forgotten within the county of Ayrshire is probably the richest and most fascinating heritage of all Scotland’s shires.
“But unbelievably, the historic town of Ayr is the only county town in Scotland that has no public or private museum in which to promote and display this wonderful tradition.
“It is a sad indictment of the various local authorities — from the old Ayr County Council, Strathclyde Region, Kyle and Carrick District, and now South Ayrshire Council — that no authority has yet had the breadth of vision to create a County Museum worthy of the Shire.
“We would love to work closely with SAC and Ayrshire Archives staff to ensure the realisation of this vision after almost 130 years of waiting."
Museum of Ayrshire think the old Ayr Grammar is a prime location for the centre, which would also host facilities for adult meetings and lectures in the evenings.
Dr Begg said: “As well as entertaining and educating Ayrshire children and adults about their heritage, it would be a fantastic tourist day visitor attraction, especially in wet weather, and provide a first-class facility that Ayr is sadly lacking.
“Ayr, South Ayrshire, and Ayrshire in general, are in desperate need of quality wet-weather and all-season tourist attractions.
“This new Museum would work in close co-operation with all other museums and visitor attractions, and act as a hub from which to inform and direct visitors to many other excellent facilities in Ayrshire and South West Scotland.”
Ayrshire Live previously reported in February that South Ayrshire Council plan to sell off the old school with one proposal stating the building could be developed into flats or office space.
A council spokesperson said: “The former Ayr Grammar is currently being marketed on our website as a development opportunity.
“We have been contacted by a number of interested parties including the Museum Steering Group.
“Once a closing date for offers has been set, a report will go to councillors for consideration.”
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
