£16 million plan to transform Burns Statue Square set for public consultation

Plans to transform Burns Statue Square into a modern, welcoming gateway to Ayr town centre are moving forward, with the public set to play a key role in shaping its future.

South Ayrshire Council has confirmed that ambitious proposals are being developed to redesign one of the town’s most recognisable spaces, shifting it away from its current traffic-dominated layout towards a people-focused civic square.

The project, backed by £16 million from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, aims to create a more attractive and usable environment for residents, visitors and local businesses.

At present, Burns Statue Square is largely defined by vehicles circulating around a central island, with the statue of Robert Burns and the war memorial sitting somewhat isolated from the surrounding streets. The new vision would see that layout fundamentally rethought, with plans to expand the public space and improve how people move through the area.

Early design concepts suggest a high-quality public realm featuring new paving, seating and landscaping, alongside potential artistic elements inspired by Burns and the natural environment. The intention is to create a space where people can gather, spend time and enjoy the town centre rather than simply pass through it.

A key part of the proposals involves changes to traffic movement. Options under consideration include reducing or removing vehicle routes that currently cut through the square, allowing for a larger pedestrian-friendly area and strengthening connections between Ayr railway station and the High Street.

The redevelopment also aims to enhance the setting of the Burns statue and surrounding heritage features, integrating them more naturally into the town centre rather than leaving them on isolated islands.

Council officials have described the project as a significant opportunity to reshape the southern entrance to Ayr, improving first impressions and helping to support wider regeneration efforts across the town.

Public consultation will form a central part of the next stage. Residents, businesses and visitors will be invited to review emerging designs, attend engagement events and provide feedback before any final decisions are made.

While no exact dates have yet been confirmed, consultation is expected to take place as designs progress through 2026, with a final proposal due to be brought back to councillors later in the year.

The project forms part of a broader shift in how town centres are being reimagined, with a growing focus on creating spaces that prioritise people, experiences and community use.

Further details, including visual designs and consultation dates, are expected to be released in the coming months.