Work has started on a new £1.3 million visitor hub project in South Ayrshire.

The scheme will transform the derelict stables at Ayr's Belleisle Estate as part of a wider £5 million investment programme at the Estate.

Features include a new visitor hub that will include flexible community space, a café, facilities for Park Rangers, and public toilets.

The new building will use reclaimed stone and glass to provide a visual transition between Belleisle House, Belleisle Golf Course and the environment of the wider estate. In addition, it will be powered by a biomass boiler, with rainwater harvested to help reduce energy consumption and running costs.

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The construction stage of the new building is expected to start March 2018.

Cllr Peter Henderson said: "Belleisle has been transformed in recent years with investment helping to double the number of visitors and improve the Estate's appeal.

"With progress already seen with the refurbishment of the Conservatory, the creation of the new Golf Clubhouse, and the wider improvements to paths and landscaping, the next stage will see a fantastic new visitor hub created that will maintain the momentum.

"By creating an environment that responds to the needs of our communities and visitors alike we aim to attract even more people to enjoy the estate in future. I look forward to the main construction stage getting underway next year, when the old stable block will be reborn for the next generation."

(LM)