New bids will be made for other towns

Aug 14 2009 by Edwin Lawrence, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

GET back in there and re-bid for Girvan.

That’s what MSPs are telling South Ayrshire Council.

But it seems the council doesn’t have to be told.

And leader, Councillor Hugh Hunter, says there will be new bids for both Girvan AND Maybole.

Both Adam Ingram and Cathy Jamieson are pleased that Ayr and Cumnock will benefit from a Scottish Government kitty.

But they are unhappy there is nothing yet for Girvan or Maybole.

The SNP’s Mr Ingram said: “I am disappointed that bids to the fund for Maybole and Girvan were not of sufficient calibre to be given an award.”

But he said the council now had ‘a golden opportunity’ to restore its reputation in Girvan.

And he is urging it to re-bid – and include a swimming pool this time.

Labour’s Cathy Jamieson agrees, and says the council must act urgently.

She pointed out: “With applications for the next round of funding due by the end of the month, the council must act quickly to avoid Girvan losing out again.”

Girvan and South Carrick ward’s Councillor John McDowall said it was ‘extremely disappointing’ Girvan wasn’t one of 48 towns to get a share of the £60 million regeneration fund.

But the Labour councillor hopes the town can net a share of £20 million still available.

Councillor Hugh Hunter promises ‘strong bids’ for both Girvan and Maybole before the August 31 deadline.

The Conservative council leader pledged:“We will put forward the best bids possible. And we will, of course, consult with MSPs.”