A PETITION has been launched by a local Prestwick man to save the town’s old Police Station.

It was reported in late-January by the Ayr Advertiser Series that South Ayrshire Council are planning to build social housing on the spot of the building on Main Street.

However, Gareth Bevan, who has lived in the town for 40 years, is planning to put a stop to any council plans with a petition that already has 157 signatures.

Gareth is hoping to get 200 signatures to make chiefs at South Ayrshire Council think again about building affordable housing on the spot.

He said: “The council’s latest proposal to demolish Prestwick’s old police station and accompanying social work office is one step too far. The oldest of these buildings in question dates back to 1903-4 and with it’s neighbour are substantial Main Street landmarks. For these to be replaced with modern flats could only be categorised as vandalism.

“The buildings have been maintained until recently and would be fit for purpose for a number of other uses. We only have to look at neighbouring Ardrossan to see how their old police station which was in a much worse condition has been brought back to life and is now a significant asset to the town. Why can’t our Council leaders have the vision to attempt something similar?”

Gareth also believes that the existing buildings at 12 and 14 Main Street should be preserved as part of any new use of the proposal site.

Ralph Riddiough, South Ayrshire Council’s Head of Legal and Democratic Services said: “We are aware of the petition, which has not yet been formally submitted to the Council. In considering petitions that are submitted, we follow the procedure set out in our Public Petitions Protocol.”