Councillors will consider a report for the redesign of Burns Statue Square in Ayr at a full Council Meeting on 10 September following community engagement held in the spring.
If approved, the project, subject to planning, will create a distinct new gateway to the town centre and a welcoming civic space with public seating that celebrates the square’s heritage by embracing Robert Burns’ love of nature.
The £16m redevelopment which would be delivered by Ayrshire Roads Alliance, on behalf of South Ayrshire Council, is the first of ten major projects aimed at transforming Ayr Town Centre. The UK Government’s Local Regeneration Fund has provided £16m funding to the project, with the stipulation that this funding cannot be used in conjunction with any other project.
Feedback from the public engagement has led to improved designs which take into account the public’s desire for more greenery and a stronger local identity. Based on public opinion, traffic flow and parking plans have been updated and there’s improved accessibility and loading bays for businesses. Changes have also been made to ensure that the contractor will work closely with affected businesses to ensure minimal disruption. Details of the public engagement and the report can be found on the South Ayrshire Council website
Councillor Brian Connolly, Council Leader and Economy and Strategy Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council said, “Burns Statue Square sits at the heart of Ayr and plays an important role in the town’s identity and future development. Councillors will carefully consider the report and the feedback received through the engagement process before making a decision.
“Should the proposals be approved, the project would represent a significant investment in Ayr town centre and could help create an attractive civic space that supports residents, visitors and businesses. The report reflects the views shared by the community and sets out how the design has evolved in response to that feedback.”
Councillor Alec Clark, Depute Leader and Commercial/Operational Servies Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council whose remit includes transportation said: “A key consideration throughout the development of these proposals has been how people move through the town centre while maintaining access for businesses, public transport users and those travelling by car.
“The report sets out a number of changes that have been made following public engagement, including updates to traffic arrangements, parking provision and accessibility measures. I feel there is now a good balance between transport needs and the wider vision for the square”.
Since its development in the early nineteenth century, Burns Statue Square has been a location of civic pride and a defining landmark within Ayr town centre, a place of historic and cultural importance.
However, currently it functions as a traffic-dominated roundabout, with the Burns Statue and War Memorial isolated from the surrounding streets and the A70 running through it. The new design will transform the square into a welcoming destination creating a quality and attractive environment for people to enjoy.
Councillor Chris Cullen, Leisure and Community Services Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council said: “Burns Statue Square is one of Ayr’s most recognisable public spaces and holds considerable cultural and community importance. The proposed design aims to create a more welcoming environment that celebrates the area’s heritage while providing opportunities for people to meet, spend time and enjoy the town centre.
“Community feedback has played an important role in shaping the proposals, particularly around the character of the square.”
Councillor Bob Shields, Planning and Regulatory Services Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council said: “The report presents a vision for how Burns Statue Square could be transformed while recognising its historic significance and its role as a gateway to Ayr town centre.
“Any redevelopment would remain subject to the appropriate planning processes and assessments. The Council meeting provides an opportunity for elected members to consider the proposals in detail, alongside the engagement findings and the potential benefits and challenges identified within the report.”
Burns Statue Square has been a defining landmark in Ayr town centre since the early nineteenth century. Originally developed as a key arrival point from the railway station, the square evolved into a major transport interchange and commercial hub. Its cultural significance was cemented in 1882 with the unveiling of the bronze statue of Robert Burns by architect George A Lawson, followed by the South African War Memorial in 1902, created by Thomas Brock.
