A new bar and restaurant is coming to Ayrshire.
Ayrshire Live can reveal that the former Superdrug store in Ayr High Street is being earmarked as the ideal site.
And the new venue would also have links to Ayrshire.
For the company behind the plan – Ultimate Leisure (Scotland) – owns Vinyl in Arthur Street; and it is based on South Harbour Street.
This week, the firm was informed that its application for a change of use, from retail (Class 1) unit to (Class 3) bar and restaurant, has been approved by South Ayrshire Council, in principle.
The proposals will only apply to the ground floor of the B-listed building at 128 High Street.
It is unclear at this stage who would ultimately run the bar/restaurant.
But from a business perspective, it is hoped the new venture will breathe new life into the High Street, as the current site is vacant.
Ultimate Leisure chief Fraser MacIntyre said: "We see the premises as one of great potential for someone to take on and make their own.
"I'm sure it can play a key part in helping Ayr town centre enjoy a vibrant future."
Previous occupants Superdrug announced back in December 2021 they were on the move and have since relocated to Ayr Central Shopping Centre, leaving their former High Street pitch vacant.
There was, however, one objection to the proposals, with concerns over potential anti-social behaviour.
However, council papers state: “Any anti-social behaviour, should it occur, would be a matter for the operator of the premises if it occurs on the premises, or a matter for Police Scotland, if it occurs off the premises.”
The report goes on: “It is also noted that the proposal represents the re-use of an existing vacant premises and in this context represents the sustainable re-use of existing buildings.”
The report adds: “Given the nature of the proposals being for planning permission in principle, and with no external alterations being proposed at this stage, then the proposed development is not considered to affect the B-listed building or its setting, the setting of adjacent and nearby listed buildings, or the character and appearance of Ayr Conservation Area.
“Overall, there are no policy objections to this proposal and it is considered that this proposal, subject to appropriate conditions, does not have an adverse impact on the character or residential amenity of the surrounding area. It is recommended that the application be approved, subject to conditions.”
One of the conditions attached is that the applicant must undertake a noise assessment and submit it to planners.
In years gone by, the building was once occupied by the Halifax Bank.
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