South Ayrshire Council closed the Girvan
swimming pool in January 2009. The adjacent Beach Pavilion has
been dark for a much longer period. Subsequently, these facilities
were demolished, with a promise, after considerable pressure from the
community, that the council would be exploring the possibilites for regeneration
in Girvan.
Council officers brought proposals to a meeting of elected members on 17th December,
2010. In a web posting described as an 'Historic decision
for Girvan and South Carrick', the council publicity team outlined the outcome
of that meeting.
'The year will end on a high for communities in the Girvan and South
Carrick area after South Ayrshire Councillors approved proposals for
a major redevelopment that will support the regeneration of the area,
enhance tourism and leisure opportunities and boost the local economy.
The decision was taken at the last meeting of South Ayrshire Council
this year and comes 11 months after the Council initially approved a
motion for proposals to be developed for a new multi-faceted facility
that would help address the health, education, economic, environmental
and social needs of the area.
At the meeting, Councillors agreed the proposal to develop such a facility
at the harbourside in Girvan, with the aim of creating a "catalytic
effect" on economic regeneration.
Proposals for the £8 million facility include:
* a swimming pool, cafe and fitness suite;
* balcony viewing areas that promote the unrivalled viewpoint of the
site;
* a multi-purpose gathering space that could be used for community events
and social activities;
* an outdoor learning and activity centre with climbing wall that could
accommodate cycling, walking, paddle sport and sailing activities (sic);
and
* a quality restaurant.'
Astute readers will note that, apart from a lot of airy persiflage, the
proposal appears to include a 'climbing wall' of remarkable versatility.
Others might question whether there is sufficient demand for both a cafe
and a quality restaurant.
For further information please follow this LINK
The South Ayrshire Council Report on the project can be found at this LINK
Girvan Baths; closed and awaiting demolition
Girvan Baths; closed and shuttered; awaiting demolition