CONCERNS have been raised that part of the ground at the Citadel Quay could collapse as no money has been spent there for 15 years. 

A member of the Citadel Quay Residents Association fears the embankment near Ayr’s former Harbour, where the Watchful sits, could crumble.

The point was raised at a public meeting last week. Alan Mackay highlighted the deterioration of the area in the last 15 years. 

Mr Mackay said: “There are some serious issues around the embankment of the slipway where the old fishing boat is sited, and the pedestrian walkway is subsiding.

“Nothing has been done in the last 15 years to keep the area up to scratch. The regeneration took place and now there is nothing.

“I fear the slipway where the boat sits could collapse. 
“It has been allowed to fall into disrepair. 

“It did partly collapse about five years ago but it was fixed at the time.
“Something just needs to be done.”

Cllr Siobhian Brown was in agreement with the concerns.
 She said: “I totally agree. 

“The area has been neglected and discussions are needed regarding what to do with that area. 

“I would like to see some historical plaques or a museum.
“I have had meetings with the residency association, and council officers attended a meeting at the Citadel and walked around the area. 

“There have been issues with skateboarding, and the surface will be changed. 

“Chris Campbell, Link Officer, has been engaging with the skate-boarders, and the council have been talking to residents about setting up a community group. 

“Railings have been painted and graffiti removed. “
Peter McCall advised that after the June meeting, Mike Newell was contacted regarding litter issues along the beach. 

Implications for beach cleaning stem from the north beach having been categorised as ‘recreational’ in 2007. 

Cllr Brown confirmed that since cost-cuttings in 2016, only the ‘amenity’ area, from Cromwell Road to Ayr India with public toilets and swing park, is regularly mechanically cleaned. 

Peter McCall suggested the category at the north end of the beach needs to be re-considered, population has increased in that area since 2007. 

Cllr Brown continued: “The council are aware of these issues and the Citadel Quay area is under review, including a consideration of public transport. 

“There are no buses down there so those who are slightly older cannot go to the Citadel for a swim as not everyone is able to walk.”

The council will continue to look into the regeneration of the area and ensure the walkway beside the watchful does not crumble.