We understand we can’t please all
As we continue the recovery from the pandemic, the beautiful weather has brought an increase in visitors to the area (also some water shortages).
This is a welcome boost for business and we must build on our tourist attractions to make sure that people come back again. Awards for our beaches helped and I want to thank our cleansing department and public groups for coping with the increase in litter and poor behaviour by some.
Progress is being made in regeneration and recovery with work commenced on Craigie sports facilities, work started on the riverside sight in Ayr, work underway on the river Ayr hydro electric scheme, progress on the Active travel strategy, projects in Girvan, Ballantrae, Maybole, Prestwick and Troon as well as other villages. The Trial for motor homes has received excellent feedback and visitors.
I am concerned on the effects for employment of stopping the furlough scheme, the decision to stop the additional £20 per week for those on
Universal Credit will have severe effects on families and should be opposed and retained. Very often this additional funding means the difference between food and heating.
The increase in payments for school uniform and shoes will make a difference to many. The consultation on the leisure centre for Ayr concludes soon. The regeneration of Maybole town centre is picking up pace as the bypass makes progress thanks to reduction in Covid restrictions and the good weather.
The council does take everyone’s views into account and seeks to find a balance. We understand that this will not please all, but those with the loudest voices and single agendas should perhaps reflect that we must seek to accommodate all constituents.
It is easy to oppose when you don’t have to take account of diminishing budgets. I would ask people to take your rubbish home or dispose of it properly we all have a part to play in maintaining our environment.