A former watering hole in Ayr could make way for a new hot food takeaway and cafe venture.
Ayrshire Live can reveal that the old L&M’s Lounge Bar, in Bath Place, is being earmarked for the new business proposition.
Agents in the proposals are JKM Consultancy, in Cumnock, and the applicant is Rory Miller, of Ayr, who is seeking alterations and change of use (Class A) permission from South Ayrshire Council planners.
A supporting statement reads: “The vacant property aspect of the proposal is a significant factor in terms of sustainability to re-use of the existing building and to re-purpose this as a shop.
“The shop will be run providing a community facility such as coffee, sandwiches and will provide soup heating in an electric urn, as well as, for example, sausage rolls made off site to be heated in the microwave.”
According to the proposal, the layout has been configured along the lines of the operation of a “Greggs” which operates as a shop under Class 1A. And the plans show a small seating area.
The statement continues: “It is considered that whilst the loss of a public house is regrettable and is considered to be a community facility, it is noted that there are existing public houses nearby such as Wellington’s Bar at Wellington Square, Ayr and Vista Bar & Restaurant at the Horizon Hotel, Esplanade, Ayr.
“The proposal will replace one community facility with another, e.g. shop that has different opening hours and will provide a compatible use to surrounding residential uses and office use. The footfall generated will be different as well as the opening hours.”
In terms of economic development, the proposal will provide a “retail outlet” to visitors to Ayr seafront and to employees of surrounding offices based around Wellington Square.
The statement said: “It will also potentially provide a service to future events held at the Low Green given its location adjacent to Ayr seafront and the Low Green and is located adjacent to a hot food takeaway “Reel Plaice” based at the former Waverley Café, 22 Bath Place, Ayr.”
The statement adds: “The application is timely in view of the closure of the Ocean’s Store at Churchill Tower earlier in 2024 will enable a replacement for one shop closure with another shop opening and has demonstrated a specific locational need.
“According to Google maps the premises at Bath Place is a 15 minute walk to Ayr Central retail area. Taking these facts together, it is unlikely that the proposal will have a significant detrimental effect on the vitality and viability of Ayr Town Centre.”
The proposals are listed as ‘pending consideration’ on South Ayrshire Council’s online planning portal and a decision on them is expected in March.