A radical makeover plan for Ayr bandstand has been approved by council planners.
Ayrshire Live can reveal that a planning application was previously submitted, seeking permission to make alterations to the bandstand, to erect a new canopy, create wing walls, a shelter and seating, and deliver general landscaping.
And the proposals have been green lighted by the local authority.
The current bandstand is tired and looking in need of a revamp.
Now stunning images have been issued, showing what the public realm space will eventually look like.
Agents in the proposals were Wellington Square-based Denham Youd and the applicant was South Ayrshire Council.
In a design and access statement, the aim of the venture was to create “the feeling of an auditorium” with “light touch,” landscaping techniques employed at the grassed area, to resemble the feeling of an “amphitheatre on level ground.”
The statement goes on: “The site is very exposed to the prevailing south-westerly wind and there are roads on all three sides. To ensure we create a sense of place, the immediate surrounding context of the bandstand should be improved, hand in hand with the bandstand.
“We have taken note that security and vandalism are an issue with the existing structure.
“There is a variety of street furniture on the site, which is a result of functionality. We would like to carefully incorporate street furniture into the new design.”
CCTV and soft lighting is also a part of the overall plan, as is alterations to surrounding roads, which the agents said “must be improved” to create a “sense of place.”
In terms of some of the pre-cast wing panels, on either side of the bandstand, the agents also revealed that they hope to have custom artwork “built into them.”
Ayr esplanade has a rich and varied history of music, performance and theatre.
As such, it is hoped the proposals provide a ‘nod’ to the town’s heritage.
The statement adds: “South Ayrshire Council are seeking to improve the functionality and usability of the Bandstand and St. Germain-En-Laye Gardens with the aim of utilising the space for public events. The brief is to work with the existing structure.
“The bandstand is of important cultural significance to the community and has a history as children’s theatre and as a space for live music/ performance.”
In approving the plan, council papers said: “The proposed development to alter and improve the existing bandstand is a positive and sensitive proposal that respects the historic environment while enhancing public amenity. The careful design of the canopy, seating areas, and hard landscaping ensures that the proposal is sympathetic to the surrounding conservation area and contributes positively to the overall aesthetic and cultural value of the area.
“The development will enhance the functionality of the site, providing an inclusive and accessible public space that supports a wide range of community activities, while also celebrating Ayr’s rich history and heritage, making it a valuable contribution to the continued regeneration and improvement of the Ayr beachfront.”