Time talk became action

The late and great Frank Sinatra once spent a night at Ayr Station Hotel. Now . . . it seems the Rat Pack have finally moved in as well!

It’s now over two years since this column first highlighted the gradual demise of this once great building.

And it’s been two years of talk . . . and no action.

I understand former MSP Chic Brodie – unsuccessful in his council bid two weeks ago – has been working behind the scenes to broker a deal between the current owner and a potential developer.

I was also pleased to see the Station Hotel’s plight merited a special reference in the SNP’s manifesto – with a pledge to investigate its potential as offices, retail space and student accommodation. But again – it’s all still talk. If the new South Ayrshire Council wanted to make a “marquee” move to show it means business – it could do worse than come up with a development plan that puts the future of this landmark building beyond doubt.

However, I had to smile when one of my regulars read last week’s ‘ Post’ and announced,

“Hey, I was in the Army. It’s not the rats arriving . . . it’s when they start leaving you should be worried aboot!”