A PLAN to bring empty buildings back into use in Ayr - and a plea to spend millions reinventing the doomed Station Hotel - were under the spotlight at a conference in the town earlier this month.

The event, run by the Ayr Station Hotel Community Action Group, was attended by more than 100 people who ranged from individual members of the public, business people and representatives from community groups across South Ayrshire, as well as local councillors, council officials and staff.

Potential projects to conserve and develop important historic buildings were discussed with great enthusiasm, including a new-look Ayr Station Hotel.

Esther Clark from the Action Group said: “We would like the Scottish Government money for a new glass and steel station to be diverted. The £20m for that could do a grand job. There is also the £4.5m that demolition would cost.

“The purposes of the new life in old buildings could range from a cafe and restaurant for rail travellers and the public and venues. It would have multiple uses but would need established reputable project management as from the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust to ensure its credible future.”

Calling for a smaller building on the High Street to be put back into use, Esther added: “It was an old building where things got weighed. You can see how old it is from the windows and its pokey hat roof. It’s sitting empty. Community empowerment can help restore these buildings.”

South Ayrshire Council leader Douglas Campbell said it was an enjoyable event.