Demolition works at former Hourstons site set for May as public views sought on Ayr town centre plans

Ayr Town Centre is set for a major overhaul this year as demolition works to progress one of Scotland’s first ‘care villages’ have been announced.The public is now being asked to share its views on The Ayr Town Centre Framework, which sets out key priority projects that will make the town a more successful place to live, work, visit and enjoy.Council chiefs say the framework will look to transform Ayr into a “more mixed-use town centre”, with the Hourstons and Arran Mall Care Village project - which looks to become one of the first care villages in Scotland - a key focus.Alongside the redevelopment of the Hourstons site, other ‘high-level projects’ include ‘Accessible Ayr’, the esplanade and the development of the Kyle Quarter.A new ‘Transport Interchange’ and the Robert Burns Square Upgrade programme - which looks to support heritage, arts and creative attractions - are also part of the plans.Although the framework has yet to be adopted, several of the projects such as the ‘Living Well Village’ at the former Hourstons building are already well advanced.Demolition works for the project are set to start in May and will see one of the extension blocks at the back of Hourstons removed along with the Arran Mall.The Ayr Esplanade strategy is also progressing, with focus on improving amenities and providing quality public spaces which can be used by residents and visitors.Views from the public are now being sought on all initiatives under The Ayr Town Centre Framework, with the consultation running until March 1.

Once all the feedback has been gathered, the framework will go before councillors in April. An online public survey will be launched on January 15 at www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/consultationsA public engagement drop in