Ayr is open to traffic for first time in 20 years

Dec 18 2009 Ayrshire Post (main ed)

AYR High Street has opened up to traffic for the first time in nearly 20 years.

Cars will be able to drive along the town centre street after 6pm every night.

The move ends weeks of public constulation and means that access will be completely unrestricted until 6am the following morning.

Drivers will be able to use service bays free of charge during the six month trial period.

South Ayrshire’s environment spokesman, Councillor Peter Convery explained: “The council has listened to the views of many people and businesses who feel that vehicles should allowed into Ayr High Street in the evenings.”

Council chiefs revealed earlier this year that they planned to lift the restrictions banning all but a limited number of vehicles from entering the High Street.

They insist that the move will help boost the economy and bring much needed life to the beleaguered town centre at night.

Two new taxi stances will also operate in the High Stree along with a further full time stance outside the Kyle Centre.

Councillor Convery added: “The initial trial will be continually monitored and evaluated closely and an update report will be presented to a future leadership panel in sixmonths time.

“At any time during this period, the experimental order may be reversed, but no permanent traffic regulation order would be put in place until further consultation is carried out and the authorities are convinced that this is the best way forward for Ayr High Street.”