A plan to build glamping pods in the heart of Burns country has sparked an uprising from residents.
Proposals are on the table to erect 10 holiday units, a farm shop and café close to Brig O'Doon House Hotel in Alloway. But objectors say the project - opposite the Burns Monument - would be enough to make the Bard "turn in his grave".
Neighbours say the use of greenbelt land should be strictly off limits - and they have launched a fierce campaign to protect the site.
Alison McEwan, spokesperson for the residents fighting to protect the land, said: "I've lived here over 50 years and cannot imagine something less appropriate for the area.
"What self-respecting tourist, who has travelled halfway across the world, wishes to stand on the Burns Monument balcony, or indeed the Brig O'Doon, and view ugly buildings and toilets?
"In other words, essentially nothing more than a campsite under a posh name."
Objectors claim "bonfires, barbecues, music and possibly revelry till all hours," will ruin the unspoilt land beside Longhill Avenue.
The scheme, if approved, would see pods capable of accommodating up to six people each.
Ms McEwan added: "This means that at any given time up to 60 people could be occupying this portion of the field. This could potentially have a huge, almost daily, turnover of new guests who would be coming and going at all hours.
"The proposal is to replant more greenery in a pathetic attempt to hide what is ultimately going to be nothing more than a complete eyesore and a blot on the landscape."
Those behind the venture say it could create five permanent jobs and have unveiled striking designs for the tourist attraction.
But South Ayrshire Council, who are due to consider the application, have been bombarded by scores of complaints.
Resident Caren Young said: "This is an area of great historical significance for visitors from the UK and overseas. Glamping pods and a farm shop are totally at odds with this and would spoil the whole area."
David Cosh added: "Rabbie Burns will turn in his grave."
And David Mills said: "This is not an essential housing development, rather a commercial revenue stream for the landowner."
Council leader Martin Dowey, who represents the Alloway ward, said: "Fellow councillors and I are aware of the heightened concerns around this issue, but as it is a live planning application it would be inappropriate for us to comment any further."
A council spokesperson said: "The application was registered on July 13 and is pending consideration.
"It will be considered and determined in accordance with the council's agreed procedures for the handling of planning applications in due course."
The applicants did not respond to a request for comment.
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