PUBLIC consultations for a travellers site in Girvan are expected to take place in the near future.

The proposed accommodation will provide homes for a settled community of travellers, who have lived in the Girvan area for almost 20 years. 

New lodges are expected to be developed on the site at Coalpots Road with councillors making the final decision following meetings with residents of South Carrick.

The travelling families lived on the council’s previous Houdston site which was affected by flooding in late 2015.

South Ayrshire Council has a responsibility to provide good quality accommodation to this community which meets their medium and long term needs.

David Burns, South Ayrshire Council’s Head of Housing and Facilities, said: “We held a positive public meeting in Girvan recently to give the community a chance to see how plans were progressing for the site at Coalpots Road.”

The council have been investigating potential replacement sites since last December. 

Eight areas have been investigated by the council as suitable alternatives to Houdston which was ruled out over concerns that it could flood again in the future. 

The new site aims to provide a modern living environment while respecting the cultural requirements of the residents.

Mr Burns added: “Our proposals are designed to meet the needs of the traveller community, while providing new lodges at a viable, managed site, that would be efficient to run.

“The plans are still at an early stage and will be subject to public consultation as part of the planning process, with any final decision being made by councillors.”