At the Cabinet meeting held last week, councillors agreed that lead designers Sweco can prepare detailed technical plans in the next stage of the Accessible Ayr process. The plans will be unveiled towards the end of the summer and the public invited to view and comment at a series of consultation events.

The project will enhance a number of town centre routes including High Street, Sandgate, Kyle Street, Alloway Street, Newmarket Street, Fort Street, New Bridge Street, Alloway Place, Carrick Street, John Street, Station Road, River Street, Barns Crescent, Barns Park, Wellington Square, Pavilion Road and Miller Road. It will also dovetail with a car parking strategy currently underway by Ayrshire Roads Alliance.

The plans, which are being driven by South Ayrshire Council, Ayrshire Roads Alliance and Sustrans, include changes to the streetscape to make it easier to access for walking, wheeling and cycling, as well as improved public realm.

Funding is being supported by Transport Scotland through Sustrans’ Places for Everyone programme, a Scottish infrastructure fund which aims to create safer, healthier and more attractive places through active travel.

Councillor Bob Pollock, economic development portfolio holder for South Ayrshire Council, said: “We’re determined to support active travel projects in towns and villages throughout South Ayrshire. There are massive environmental, social and economic benefits when it comes to walking and cycling and we need to ensure anyone wheeling or walking in Ayr Town Centre can do so safely. Vehicles still have a role to play not only for travel but in supporting business, so we need to find a balance. It’s important that people living, working, and travelling in Ayr Town Centre continue to engage with the consultation.”

Following the consultation engagement South Ayrshire’s Cabinet is scheduled to review the next stage of proposals in January 2024.