A regeneration project in East Ayrshire has taken a 'big leap' forward following the arrival of diggers on site.

The regeneration of Townhead Street in Cumnock is now thoroughly underway as work begins on a £2.2m retail development.

Seven units will be built by contractors Ashleigh Building for sale or lease.

Helen McLean of Cumnock Community Council said she was pleased with the plans, which have been drawn up in conjunction with the Prince's Foundation for Building Communities.

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The new shopfronts will also include three spaces for on street parking for people with disabilities.

Council Leader Douglas Reid met with Ms Mclean, the project team and representatives of Ashleigh Building to see the site.

He said: "We've already seen a lot of Cumnock's traditional buildings getting a facelift thanks to the Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) funding, and the building of Rothesay House was a big step forward, but now we're getting a chance to tackle the retail side of the town.

"The new shops are being offered firstly to current occupants of the Glaisnock Centre, and a number of other businesses have also shown an interest.  The units will provide a solid future for existing and new businesses.

"We're looking forward to a handover in the Spring of 2016."

(LM)