Views sought on Burns Statue Square transformation designs

The £16 million project is being delivered by Ayrshire Roads Alliance on behalf of South Ayrshire Council and aims to transform the traffic-dominated island to create a distinct town centre gateway.

Proposed designs feature a welcoming civic space, that celebrates the Square’s heritage by embracing Robert Burns’ love of nature, and will become a destination area for people to visit and enjoy.

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.

Recognising its prominence, Burns Statue Square is one of the ten priority projects identified by South Ayrshire Council.

Using traffic modelling systems, it is anticipated that proposed changes to the road configuration, which includes the realignment of the A70 carriageway southwards away from the south-facing building frontages, along with new signal timings, will lead to more efficient travel on the routes and faster journey times.

As well as redefining the shape, space and presentation of the square, new planting is proposed as well as informal bench seating creating a quality and attractive environment.

In a nod to Burns’ love of nature the proposed design of the Square will feature an interpretation of the local landscape such as meandering paving to represent a local river.

Councillor Brian Connolly, council leader and Economy and Strategy Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council, said: “This £16m investment represents a significant boost for Ayr’s economy, helping to create a more vibrant and attractive town centre that supports local businesses, encourages increased footfall, and strengthens Ayr’s appeal as a destination for both residents and visitors.”

Councillor Alec Clark, depute leader and Commercial/Operational Services Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council, whose remit includes transportation said: “The proposed redesign of Burns Statue Square will deliver meaningful improvements to traffic flow and journey times, while creating a safer and more efficient road layout that better serves motorists, pedestrians and public transport users alike.”

Funding for the £16m project has been secured from the Local Regeneration Fund, formerly known as the Levelling Up Fund.

When the consultation launches on Saturday 16 May, people will be able to view the plans, take part in a survey and talk to the project team at in-person events.

Results of the public engagement will be made public late summer and presented to South Ayrshire Council elected members in September.