South Ayrshire Beaches Retain Prestigious Award from Keep Scotland Beautiful

Six beaches in South Ayrshire have once again retained the prestigious Scotland's Beach Award from environmental charity, Keep Scotland Beautiful.

For another year, all beaches maintained by South Ayrshire Council have been recognised, with Ayr, Girvan, Maidens, Prestwick, Troon (South Beach) and Barassie meeting the key criteria set by Keep Scotland Beautiful. The awards highlight excellence across areas including amenities, biodiversity, safety and cleanliness.

The Scotland's Beach Award recognises the best beaches across the country and encourages ongoing improvements to enhance the environmental, economic and aesthetic value of Scotland's coastline. As the only national benchmark for local environmental quality, the award celebrates beaches that are clean, well-managed and sustainable, helping ensure these important spaces can be enjoyed by communities and visitors alike.

This year, 52 beaches across Scotland have achieved award status, reflecting the consistently high standards of beach management nationwide. The programme helps people choose where to visit with confidence, knowing these beaches are being carefully maintained for people, nature and the wider environment, while also supporting continued investment and improvements to coastal areas.

South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Housing and Property Services, Councillor Martin Kilbride, said: "These awards reflect the pride we take in our coastline and the high standards we maintain year after year. We are committed to protecting and enhancing South Ayrshire's natural environment, ensuring our open spaces remain safe, accessible and well cared for, while supporting important habitats.

By working closely with our partners, we are also improving biodiversity and water quality, helping create a healthier environment for our communities and local wildlife."

South Ayrshire Council's Depute Leader and Policy Lead for Commercial/Operational Services, Councillor Alec Clark, whose remit includes tourism said: "I'm delighted that all six of our beautiful beaches have once again achieved this respected national award. It's a fantastic reflection of the hard work that goes into keeping our coastline welcoming for everyone."

Councillor Clark added: "Our beaches are such an important part of life in South Ayrshire, enjoyed by residents and visitors all year round. This recognition highlights the great efforts of our teams, community groups and volunteers who care for these special places.

"With summer here, we're looking forward to seeing people make the most of our award-winning beaches, and hopefully we'll get more of the good weather to match!"

More information is available here.