New railings, which are sympathetic to their surroundings, have been installed at the Meal Market in Ayr town centre, replacing the glass and brick wall that was recently dismantled.

South Ayrshire Provost Winifred Sloan and the Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Councillor Gibson T. Macdonald went to see the new railings, and to view other improvements that have already been made in the town centre.

Councillor Macdonald said:  “I am pleased with the new railings which suit their surroundings and look as if they belong there.  After listening to the views of the people of South Ayrshire the Council decided to take down the wall.  People who are waiting for a bus now have much more pleasant surroundings,  and pedestrians in the town centre have a clear view of the shops.

“It is important that retailers have a desire to operate businesses in Ayr town centre and if the surroundings are attractive to them, local people, and tourists, they are more likely to locate their businesses here.”

The Council has been actively working to re-establish Ayr as the principal shopping centre in the South West of Scotland.  The Ayr Central development is now open and attracting people to the town, however, the Council is keen to see businesses in all areas of the town thrive.

Other changes in the town centre include the reinstatement of hanging baskets and the planting of spring bedding plants.  These changes are part of the Council’s ‘Spring Project’ that has been designed to brighten the town centre and make it more appealing.  Much of the street furniture in Ayr High Street, including the rubbish bins, were recently painted to make them look more presentable.

The first thing that Provost Sloan did when she took up office was to pledge to bring back hanging floral baskets and to restore civic pride in towns and villages across South Ayrshire. 

After viewing the new railings and some of the colourful planters Provost Sloan said:  “Seeing the hanging floral baskets which are a riot of welcome spring colour, and are being admired by local residents and visitors, shows what a big difference touches like this can make to a town.

“The Council is keen to work with local residents and business people to make Ayr town centre and other parts of South Ayrshire as inviting as possible.  Already Community Councils and businesses are coming to the Council and offering to help us achieve our goal.

“South Ayrshire is a wonderful place to live and to work, and I am keen that visitors to the area see it at its best.  Anything that can be done to enhance the surroundings in Ayr town centre, and other parts of South Ayrshire, can only be of benefit to both local people and members of the business community.”

April 2006