South Ayrshire Council is set to create two new conservation areas in Prestwick and Tarbolton.

As part of the proposals, local residents are being invited to attend drop-in sessions to find out where the boundaries will be and learn about the various planning implications.

Anyone living within a conservation area can be subject to additional planning controls, such as requiring planning permission for new windows or roof alterations.

The two sessions will take place as follows;

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• 5pm – 7pm, Tarbolton Community Centre, Montgomerie Street, Wednesday, 18 January.

• 5pm – 8pm, Prestwick Academy, Newdykes Road, Thursday, 19 January.

There are a total of 21 conservation areas in South Ayrshire.

Cllr Bill Grant said: "I would encourage anyone with property in Prestwick and Tarbolton to go along to the sessions to find out what living in a conservation area means. This is also an opportunity to talk to our planning officers to find out what makes parts of Prestwick and Tarbolton special and the features we are hoping to protect.

"Living in a conservation area does not have to be restrictive and our towns and villages still need to respond to the modern-day, however we have some amazing historical and architectural gems which will benefit from this added layer of protection. Looking after the unique features of our towns and villages will have a positive impact and will help cherish the area's character for generations to come."

(LM/MH)