Work is to start on a high-rise flat improvement project in Ayr.

The scheme at the Riverside High Flats is being carried out following the results of a survey carried out in light of the Grenfell Tower disaster, as well as a number of elderly residents and those with mobility issues populating the flats.

A number of upgrades will be carried out such as;

• Upgrading existing smoke alarms and fire detection systems for individual flats

• The replacement of emergency lighting in communal areas and working on the ground floor of all three buildings to create suitable space for mobility scooters

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• The replacement of front doors to individual flats, if required, to meet the most up to date current fire protection ratings

• Work to the outside of the buildings including the construction of a canopy over the main entrance areas and the replacement of external timber store doors with fire rated steel ones

Cllr Phillip Saxton said: "Since June 2017 there have been two fires at the flats and although the sprinkler systems contained and extinguished the flames on both occasions, an independent safety review was carried out to find out if improvements could be made.

"I know the residents are reassured by the steps we are taking following the Grenfell disaster and we are also reminding them of their own responsibilities to ensure the safety of themselves and their neighbours.

"We will now progress the design and implementation of these works in partnership with our tenants to minimise disruption."

(LM/MH)