Home- ston revolution
Plan for 240 new houses unveiled
The outskirts of Ayr could be transformed by plans for 240 new homes, the Post can reveal.
Family- run farming firm James Craig Ltd is proposing the overhaul on part of its land at Holmston.
The potential development, which would include “business, community and other associated uses,” has so far been rebuffed by council chiefs.
But the Post understands talks are already underway with local housing associations to deliver affordable homes on the site.
Upgrades to the Holmston roundabout and pedestrian and cycle access across the A77 are also high on the agenda.
The Holmston site was put forward to council bosses as a suitable development option for them to adopt in Ayr.
But it was not included in the potential list of new housing sites, published by the local authority this week.
Company director, Mike Craig, said: “Our site is deliverable unlike some of the other sites being proposed which are contingent on other things happening first.
“It is our vision to develop Holmston for future generations, in a creative and sustainable way, to leave a lasting legacy for Ayr and for local people.
“As a landowner, we can take a different approach to developing this site than might otherwise be the case if it was a straightforward, commercial development.
“We’re taking the long view and want to do things well and right, to create a thriving new community for Ayr.”
Bosses at the firm insist their mixed- use development would create “a new local neighbourhood to complement existing residential areas just across the A77”.
They say it would add “new, muchneeded local jobs, during all phases of construction,” which could last up to 10 years – and an eventual 757 homes.
A masterplan for the Holmston development will now be produced, which will boast a central green space at the heart of the project.
Mr Craig, who said Ayr had grown in a “linear pattern,” insisted a rethink of planning tactics was now required.
He said: “It is now time to reconsider this approach to promote growth that reinforces the town centre and encourages more sustainable modes of transport like walking, cycling and public transport.”
Council enterprise chief, Jill Cronin, confirmed they would not be pursuing a deal at the plot.
She said: “We’ll be launching a public consultation soon to give communities their say on the next Local Development Plan, with new land for housing one of the main areas being considered.
“We’re looking for feedback on a number of new sites being considered for possible development, including Bogend Toll, Dalmilling, Monkton, Muirhead and Loans, and Symington.
“We’ve already considered the Holmston plot as part of this process, but have decided not to take this suggestion any further at this time.”