Function &
Future
Design Approach
The concept designs aim to create a distinct town centre gateway, a welcoming civic space and destination that celebrates the Square’s heritage by embracing Robert Burns’ love of nature.
It will strengthen town centre connections by rebalancing the movement of traffic and enhance the experience for pedestrians by improving accessibility and prioritising their needs, using distinct materials and public realm to create a prominent and attractive setting for people to visit and enjoy.
Safe and Accessible
Currently the Square predominantly prioritises vehicle movement, with bus stops situated on congested pavements, narrow footways for pedestrians to navigate and kerbside loading. All this creates challenges for accessibility and offers little in the way of a destination. It also has a detrimental impact on noise, dust and air quality.
Access for disabled and elderly members of the community is being considered at every stage of the process. The designs are being developed in line with best practice standards and engagement with South Ayrshire Access Panel. They will also be informed by a regular review of an Equality Impact Assessment so accessibility can continue to improve as the project develops.
Reconfiguration of the Road layout
Reconfiguration of the road layout is required and recommendations include operating:-
- One way eastbound traffic in front of the Astoria Cinema
- One way northbound traffic on Killoch Place
- One way westbound traffic on Dalblair Road
- One way southbound traffic on Dalblair Way
- One way southbound traffic on Smith Street
The key traffic change proposed is the realignment of the A70 carriageway southwards, away from the south-facing building frontages to create the new civic space.
Parking
It is proposed that parking will be relocated next to the Astoria Cinema with blue badge spaces and two EV charging stations.
Pedestrian
crossing
It is proposed that the pedestrian crossing will be relocated to a more suitable location.
Buses & Taxis
The proposals aim to improve integration with public transport, making bus services easier to access and better connected to the town centre.
LOADING BAYS
Adequate loading bays will be provided and final designs will be prepared in consultation with businesses
Materials.
As well as redefining the shape, space and presentation of the Square, the use of materials will be pivotal to its design, creating a quality and attractive environment.
In a nod to Burns’ love of nature the proposed design of the Square will feature an interpretation of local landscapes.
The layout will follow a meandering footprint, with the use of natural materials to enrich the design creating an accessible and simple walkway for pedestrians.
Planting will be introduced as well as informal bench seating. Street lighting will be upgraded.
“Auld Ayr, wham ne’er a town surpasses, for honest men and bonnie lasses”
Heritage and Identity.
The Square is synonymous with the celebration of Robert Burns whose statue proudly presides over the vicinity. It is proposed that this statue and the war memorial are repositioned within the Square to enhance their primary place and remain central to their new civic space.
New public realm is also planned involving the creativity of local school pupils.
Funding.
The £16m project has secured funding from the Local Regeneration Fund formerly known as the Levelling Up Fund.