Study reveals options for future of derelict Station Hotel in Ayr
A feasibility study has been published.
Options are finally being revealed for the future of the Station Hotel in Ayr as an independent feasibility study is published.
It was commissioned by Transport Scotland, but also on behalf of South Ayrshire Council, Network Rail and ScotRail. It considers and reviews various options for the privately owned B listed building, ranging from full restoration to demolition.
It has been derelict for a number of years as a result of neglect by its owner. Scaffolding, fencing and and white sheets now surround the building. It adjoins Ayr train station and is one of the main gateways in and out of the town.
The study includes the results of a public consultation which was carried out in August and September last year. Public opinion focused on issues such as the importance of town centre living, the benefit of a new transport hub, and interest in conserving the building.
The study also explores a number of options such as turning the building into private apartments, social housing, office accommodation and even retaining the majority of the building as a hotel. But some of these have been ruled out as they would require significant private or public funding ranging from £10-£25m.
There has also been private sector interest in recent weeks, the study confirms. It includes an option for the building to be refurbished into student accommodation which is being considered.
Other options to be considered are a new train station. Prior to the pandemic, the station was used by over 1.5 million people, making over 5 million journeys a year. The study says there is undoubtedly demand for an improved and expanded station with better connections to other transportation types such as buses, cars and bicycles. The train station option could also include a business centre, retail, café, restaurants etc.
Unlike other options, public funding for an improved train station could be made available, although the study makes it clear that this funding would specifically be for the new station.
Councillor Peter Henderson, Leader of South Ayrshire Council said: “I welcome this study, as it gives us viable options as we consider the future of this privately owned building. It’s at such a prime location, a major gateway into Ayr and it can’t be left to crumble away. Unfortunately the lack of input from the current owner makes any progress a challenge, but I feel this study gives us the impetus to find a solution which will help transform the town.”
Lawrence Shackman, Head of Rail Projects and Technical Services at Transport Scotland said: “This feasibility study is a very positive and important milestone in aiming to resolve the issues surrounding the Ayr station hotel building. The strong evidence it provides for options for the building’s future is testament to the collaborative working by the Strategic Governance Group members. It also offers opportunities to enhance the economic prosperity of the town centre and communities south of Ayr.”
Liam Sumpter, Network Rail Scotland route director, said: “We are working closely with the council, government and our rail industry partners to find a long-term solution for the former hotel. This feasibility study helps set out options for the building and will play an important part in driving change at this site.”
James Ledgerwood, Head of Economic Development & Communities for ScotRail said: “The publication of this study represents a significant step forward in determining a future use for the building and the wider locale. A future use must reflect the importance of the location to Ayr and surrounding communities in the region. The deterioration of the former station hotel has had a significant impact on the quality of service and facilities ScotRail can offer our passengers travelling through Ayr station. We are committed to continue working with our local and national partners on providing a long-term solution that maximises the economic and social value of the rail network for Ayrshire.”
The Strategic Governance Group will now consider an option which under private investment could see the building turned into student accommodation, and the transport hub options which could see elements of the existing building retained.
You can view the independent feasibility study at www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/station-building/