HousingDevelopments

This week I bought the Post and noted a number of connected stories. Developments are in the news on the ‘wrong’ side of the A77.

I told Bill Grant, then a SAC councillor, some years ago that South Ayr was totally wrong but of course a farm and land at Corton was boarded up and weed infested.

I also noted that Ayr United FC were still struggling, lost badly again on Saturday.

Ayr Rugby Club have monies to spend and are going to build a new clubhouse at a poorly accessed ground at Millbrae.

I often use Somerset Road as part of my short cut from Prestwick to Ayr and although it might be an icon to some, Somerset Park is a rusting monstrosity in the centre of town.

In many places town centre grounds have been sold to supermarkets but such not needed here.

However Somerset Park and all the surrounding spaces is a true brown field site for housing.

This week I walked round the complete site by McCall Avenue, Tam’s Brig and Viewfield Road and I was surprised to see the modern offices of the club.

I also noted the recent very tidy Car Trade Centre. Somerset Gardens across the road is an attractive example of what is required.

There is also a lot of building space along McCall Avenue as far as commercial premises, some even set back from the Avenue.

The solution is to acquire land behind ASDA and Heathfield Retail Park and build a Sports Complex complete with Sports Injury Clinic for use by athletes and junior football clubs in South and East Ayrshire.

Road access would be on and off ramps north of Whitletts roundabout where it is even possible to have an underpass.

The monies would come from the sale of Millbrae and Somerset Park with each having their own grounds or possible sharing.

Indoor training spaces would hopefully be possible. It would be the right time to set up women’s football and rugby teams.

The football ground would be ideal for junior football finals. The good news for Ayr United FC could be additional funds for playing staff.

Just to let you know I have no axe to grind as I am a Ross County supporter and feel they need a break in a lower division.

William Gordon, by email