The final designs for a new leisure and community facility at Girvan Harbour have been unveiled by South Ayrshire Council and South Carrick Community Leisure.

The unveiling comes as the planning process for the £8m development officially begins.

The external designs, which have been created by Page\Park, aim to create an iconic landmark at the site of the former swimming pool, beach pavilion and existing parking area at Knockcushan Street.

The new 3,425 sq m facility is expected to include:

• A four-lane swimming pool and teaching pool, with associated viewing gallery



• A children's soft play area
-- Advertisement --





• A cafe



• A community hall for theatre, cinema and other activities



• A fitness suite



• A rooftop viewing gallery with panoramic views towards Ailsa Craig



• Civic space, parking and landscaping.

With the planning process underway, a 12-week consultation period will also begin and will allow locals to have their say on proposals.

The consultation, which will run until late January, will include a public exhibition and drop-in sessions.

Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: "This really is a milestone for the people of Girvan and marks the start of the formal process to turn the vision of a new leisure and community facility into a reality. I'm sure the designs and the progress of the proposals will create a real buzz in the town and I hope as many people as possible take the opportunity to get involved in the consultation."

The public drop-in exhibition showing the plans, models and images of the proposed facility will be on display at the Town House, Knockcushan Street, Girvan between 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Wednesday 27 November.

Comments can also be submitted online via the local authority's website.

(JP/CD)