CAMPAIGNERS hoping to save Muirhead Activity Centre were dealt another major setback last week.

Just when Muirhead Tenants and Residents Association thought they could start planning for the future, the South Ayrshire Council Audit and Governance Panel refused to back the Leadership Panel’s decision to reject a community asset transfer of the building to Dundonald Gymnastics Club. This means it goes back to Leadership Panel.

Frances Carson, Muirhead TARA chairwoman, said: “We’re really disappointed as the Leadership Panel voted against it.

“The committee talked about re-locating 15 groups but the oldest person is 93 and it’s difficult. I hope the full council votes against the transfer. The council should never forget the people.”

Councillor Philip Saxton said: “I’m surprised at the decision as the committee didn’t have much evidence

“They talk about 15 groups moving but only five of them have and there are other groups. We will endorse our original decision and then it goes to full council, hopefully they will support our decision but the applicant can appeal to the Scottish Government.”

A South Ayrshire Council spokesman said: “Dundonald Gymnastics Club asked for a review of Leadership Panel’s decision to refuse the community asset transfer request of ownership of Muirhead Activity Centre. The Audit & Governance Panel carried out the review and has referred the decision back to Leadership Panel with a recommendation to approve the asset transfer request, with conditions. The Leadership Panel will consider the Audit & Governance Panel recommendation at a future meeting.”