The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service has made an application to South Ayrshire Council for permission to undertake alterations to the Wellington Square building.

The building’s foundation stone was laid in 1818, with the building itself being completed in 1822 at a cost of more than £30,000.

SCTS is planning remedial works to protect the public from falling debris.

The planning documents state: “The immediate risk of falling masonry has been identified and some loose stonework removed however there is still essential repair work which needs to be carried out before full remedial and restoration work can commence.

“One area of concern is the cornice above the frieze above the main entrance. There are areas of the cornice which are cracking and failing.

“In some cases the remedial works may be straightforward removal of damaged stonework and replacement by indenting or wholesale replacements however due to the scale, proportion and weight of some of the stones and the construction around them more care and consideration will need to be taken.”