South Ayrshire Council News

Members of South Ayrshire Council’s Leadership Panel have approved the establishment of a Limited Liability Partnership to progress the Ayr Renaissance project and turn the vision into a reality.

Councillor Hugh Hunter, the Leader of the Council said: “The Ayr Town Centre Renaissance strategy is an exciting and ambitious project that has a vision to breathe new life into Ayr town centre and cement its position as the “county town” of Ayrshire.

“Creating a Limited Liability Partnership is another step into turning the Ayr Town Centre Renaissance from a vision into a reality. The Board will comprise of 9 Directors, the majority of these being appointed from outside the Council to attract Directors with the necessary commercial experience and expertise. There will be cross party representation on the board and David Anderson, the Council’s Chief Executive will also sit on it. We are looking to make these Board appointments as soon as possible to ensure that the project maintains momentum.

“This is a long term project that will see huge investment in the town centre and changes that will bring long term benefits for residents. Importantly it will encourage more visitors to Ayr and South Ayrshire and this will bring huge economic benefits.”

In March this year a seminar for Elected Members took place where a presentation was given on the work that has taken place to review, test, further develop and refine the Renaissance Strategy since its inception.

A broad range of issues were covered including:

• Bus station location, vehicle movement and car parking.
• Pedestrian access and public transport links.
• The long term nature of some of the proposals that require location of significant businesses.
• The desirability of exploiting the river frontage.
• The opportunity to work in partnerships with property owners in the town centre as part of the strategy and as part of the Town Heritage Initiative.
• An indication of future property demands and uses in the town centre require to create a more diverse and sustainable economic base.
• The outcome of early discussions on cultural facilities.

An initial team of a Director, a Property Specialist and an Administrator will be established. The Council’s Chief Executive has been authorised by the Leadership Panel to initiate the recruitment process.