Opposition raise questions about plan for a new air show

THE leader of the opposition Labour group on South Ayrshire Council has voiced concern at the authority’s approach towards bringing an airshow to Ayr.

Conservative council leader Martin Dowey recently revealed that he was looking to bring back the show next September, having made a pledge in the party’s local election manifesto.

Councillor Dowey had said: “I’m keen to move forward with arrangements as quickly as possible and we’re currently working on procuring a strategic partner to help us get this thrilling event off the ground.”

But at a special meeting of South Ayrshire Council on Friday, Labour’s Brian McGinley questioned whether enough work had been carried out.

He said in a written question: “Considering the recent cabinet decision to procure and operate an airshow next year, please advise the nature and extent of the due diligence on which this decision was made.”

Cllr McGinley also asked Cllr Dowey for details about health and safety assessments, the economic impact, whether the council had the ‘skills and capacity’ to deliver the event, and the issue of environmental sustainability.

In a written response, Cllr Dowey said: “The council has experience over many years of delivering successful outdoor events and festivals.

“However we do recognise that delivering the aeronautical element of the event will require particular skills and experience and on that basis, are looking to procure a strategic partner who will work with us to deliver the airshow.

“We will be carrying out a full economic impact assessment and will work to ensure that all environmental and sustainability issues will be addressed.”

Cllr McGinley responded: “Given there hasn’t been any work done on the economic impact or environmental sustainability, is that not like putting the cart before the horse?

“And if we don’t get a strategic partner, is there a plan B?”

Cllr Dowey said: “Once a decision is made with a preferred bidder there will be a full update to council. There are a number of bidders for this.”