Golf cash should not be traded for our top land
Public have their say on Academy row
If the land belongs to the public then it should stay that way
Digger Wilson
Plans to carve up one of Ayr’s most precious pieces of land have divided opinion on the street.
And whether you’re a golfer or not, the idea of building fairways on the Old Racecourse is likely to create a reaction.
Backers of the proposed Belleisle Golf Academy argue that the plan is exactly what the town needs moving forward.
But is it all smoke and mirrors aimed at satisfying the sporting elite?
Our readers had their say as we asked regulars in Ayr’s Wee Windaes for their views.
Former Post legend Edwin Lawrence, 67, said: “It’s a very difficult question for Ayr.
“The importance of golf to the economy in this part of the world is undeniable, but I can see why those living beside the Old Racecourse have their view.
“As a Dalrymple resident, I am able to watch on from a distance but if I lived beside that land I think I would want it retained for the public.”
Wife Karen, 59, said: “As a golf professional’s daughter, I will always come down in favour of the sport.
“You have to move with the times and this sounds like an exciting plan.”
Girvan’s Digger Wilson, 68, said: “If the land belongs to the public then it should stay that way.”
And wife Jean, 62, added: “Land ownership in Scotland tends to be poor on the whole.
“There is a huge inequality and I would support the public wanting to keep this.”