South Ayrshire Council has granted planning permission for the Ayr Town Centre Framework, which aims to transform the heart of the town over the next 10 years.

The ambitious plans, which include a new Ayr Station & Transport Interchange along with the development of the Kyle Quarter, will look to increase footfall, extend dwell time, and boost spending.

Councillors heard about engagement during a recent public consultation, which included:

• 1915 visits to the website, 214 completed Survey Questionnaires

• 177 attendees at the Cutty Sark Consultation Events

• 1230 comments and suggestions around how best to develop the projects.

The consultation was overwhelmingly supportive with 93% indicating broad support for the aims of the framework and offering additional comments; 88% supporting the redevelopment of the Kyle Shopping Centre and local area masterplan; 83% supporting a new Transport Interchange; along with 85% supporting the Burns Statue Square Enhancement.

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A number of 'early win' projects are also in the pipeline which could include accelerating the redesign of the Esplanade.

Councillor Bob Pollock, Economic Development Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "Thank you to everyone who took the time to give us their views during the consultation. The results show there is an appetite for change and that people are supportive of the framework. Some of these projects will take time to progress, so it's important we have some early wins to build on this enthusiasm."

Councillor Alec Clark, Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs Portfolio Holder said: "It's time to recapture Ayr's sense of place and build on the town's unique history. During the consultation, 94% of respondents said that more should be done to promote the town's creative, cultural, and evening economies. This is something I fully support as it's also great for tourism."

Councillor Martin Kilbride, Buildings, Housing and Environment Portfolio Holder said: "Like most towns across Scotland, Ayr is adapting to reflect changing consumer behaviour. There is much more emphasis on entertainment and socialising in our town centres than there was a decade ago. The framework will promote the best that Ayr has to offer as well as introducing landmark projects."