Catrine villagers demand action

Apr 3 2009

POLITICAL pressure is mounting to remove an “embarrassing” eyesore in Catrine.

The now derelict Volunteer Arms has been a bone of contention for the villagers for years.

Now local MSP Cathy Jamieson has joined forces with Councillors David Shaw and Neil McGhee to put pressure on East Ayrshire council to deal with the eyesore.

All three politicians have been contacted by dozens of residents desperate to see something done about the building.

The sandstone building is a category C listed building and sits within a conservation area in Mill Square.

Ms Jamieson said: “I can understand why local people are becoming frustrated, as the building continues to decay.

“I would like to see urgent action taken to restore the site in a way that is appropriate and in keeping with the heritage of the village.

Ms Jamieson has written to council chiefs expressing her concern and urging quick action.

And she has been backed by her colleagues.

Cllr Shaw said: “This site is an eyesore. As someone brought up in the area, it is embarrassing to see it blight the village centre.”

Cllr McGhee added: “We all want to see action taken to improve the site and see a real improvement to the centre of the village.”