Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Ryan Thom

Bulldozers move in to flatten historic Ayr building as part of town regeneration

Bulldozers have moved in to flatten an historic town house at the bottom of Ayr High Street.

The demolition of 8-10 High Street is well underway as part of plans to transform the town’s disused riverside into a public events space.

Dramatic images have shown giant diggers clawing apart the landmark and pulling it to the ground.

Dust and debris can be seen falling off the building as bricks are shattered by the heavy machinery.

Hoarding around the site has been extended on a temporary basis to protect the public during the demolition with South Ayrshire Council confirming the works are expected to finish in March.

The former Savers store and iconic townhouse was axed due to safety fears after rubble was reportedly falling from its gable end in 2019.

Diggers rip through the concrete walls of the town landmark (Ayrshire Post)

A conservation charity had hoped to save the crumbling building in the hope it could be transformed into flats.

Kyle and Carrick Civic Society previously appealed to councillors stating it was “one demolition too many”.

The Ayr riverside transformation is set to bring a new outdoor public space for ‘entertainment, walking, use of the river and just relaxing’ as well as provide a better view of the town hall.

A council spokesperson said: "Work is now well underway to transform the riverside site into a dynamic public events space.

The former Savers building is being pulled down (Ayrshire Post)

“The demolition of 8-10 High Street has started and these works are expected to be complete by the end of March.

“The site hoarding has been extended slightly on a temporary basis to ensure public safety during the demolition.

“At the other end of the site, archaeologists are currently carrying out an exploratory dig. Work is expected to proceed with minimal disruption."

Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.