Care plan primed for take off
Holmston House plan
Construction of a new town centre care home will begin by November.
The 66- bed unit, to be built at the gateway to Ayr, has finally been given the green light.
L i v e r p o o l - b a s e d P r i m e s i t e Developments are to deliver the landmark project.
They will also turn the former Holmston House into 30 flats.
It follows their purchase of the categor y- B listed building for £ 1.575million last year.
Failure to secure an enabling bond against the former council building has stalled progress.
But councillors have signed off a new financial agreement, allowing the project to proceed.
The new bond will “incentivise” restoration of the former welfare home and hospital.
Primesite’s managing director, David Cooley, told planners the commercial market had proved fruitless for developing the House.
But he insisted: “We are continuing to work closely with the council to meet their objectives.
“We have committed £ 2.2million to the scheme thus far and we’d like to commence work in November.”
Independent care giant Barchester is set to provide the nursing unit overlooking the Station Hotel.
Conservative councillor, Peter Convery, said: “In principle there is no problem here and the nursing home should be a very useful addition.
“The concern is not so much that but the potential lack of progress at Holmston House.”
Labour member Ian Cavana said: “I sat here in April when we signed off the last agreement, so I’m starting to get a wee bit alarmed.
“We want to see both developments proceed at the same time, but I have real reservations that will now happen.”
And he added: “What we don’t want is this becoming another Belleisle Hotel scenario where Holmston House sits and rots.”
Councillors unanimously agreed to the new deal to kickstart the work, which will also include three residential bungalows.