Following the recent launch of the Kilmarnock CARS (Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme) project, work has begun on the upgrading and enhancement of several properties in John Finnie Street.

Work is about to commence on the improvement of the property in which the florist Paper Roses is located, at 100 John Finnie Street.

Due to the extensive nature of the renovation works required in this property, the florist must relocate during the period of the works. A shop property within a few hundred yards of the current shop has been identified at 72 John Finnie Street.

Evelyn Murray, who owns the business which opened for trading in its new temporary shop location on 1 July 2009 said: "I am very supportive of the extensive regeneration proposals which the Council is pursuing in Kilmarnock town centre and I fully understand the reasons why my current shop has to be vacated to allow the renovation works on the building to be undertaken.

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"What could have been a very worrying and difficult time for my business has been smoothed considerably by the great support which I have received from East Ayrshire Council and the owner of the shop into which I have moved, only just along the road from my original location."

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Regeneration and Environment added: "Paper Roses is a local business which has been built up over the last decade, providing a service which is valued by its many customers. The business is based in an accessible central location in Kilmarnock, which will be greatly enhanced by the renovation work being done under the CARS scheme.

"I am delighted that the Council has worked with Evelyn to ensure that the business continues to trade effectively during the period of disruption."

(GK/JM)