IT MIGHT not feel like it but summer 2016 is just around the corner and tens of thousands of people are expected to hit Ayr beach.

This year sunbathers will be able to benefit from the significantly improved facilities at Blackburn Drive by the beach and Arthur Street in Ayr Central. 

A £400,000 contract was signed earlier this year to complete the first of two extensive upgrades to the public facilities. 

The work at Blackburn Drive, which re-opened Saturday, April 23, involved a complete overhaul of the existing property with improvements including new windows and roof, rewiring, external foot showers for beach goers, baby changing facilities, new toilet and sink fixtures, sanitary fittings, floor coverings and general decoration. 

Facilities on Arthur Street are expected to open within the next couple of weeks. To help managed day-today costs the council has implemented a 30p charge. 

Donald Gillies, South Ayrshire Council’s Head of Property and Risk, said: "The project had greatly improved the existing buildings.

"Ayr remains a firm favourite with summer tourists and this work means that our facilities are now fit to cope with expected demand.

"By focusing on delivering a quality upgrade, we will ensure beach goers, visitors, and the general public will all have access to greatly improved facilities.

"To help manage the public conveniences we’ve introduced a small service charge which will help maintain current standards in the months ahead."