AN Ayr building is about to be injected with a new lease of life after cash boost.

The Corn Market, on the High Street has lain vacant for almost a decade but is now going to be turned into an attractive location for visitors and residents of the town.

The Regeneration Capital Fund from the Scottish Government awarded Ayr Renaissance LLP £1m to refurbish the building.

The iconic B-listed town centre stands on the towns former Meal Market, which operated from the early 1500’s to 1843.

It is a prominent location on the junction of High Street and Newmarket Street.

The project will re-establish this historic use by providing an indoor-outdoor trading environment for local producers and businesses on the ground floor.

With the re-siting of the Farmers’ Market immediately outside, the project will open external wall sections to create a covered market square for small craft, food and other artisan businesses.

Upper floors will be refurbished as commercial business premises, creating small workspaces that will focus on start-up and first stage businesses.

This will contribute to the on-going regeneration of the town.

It will be a benefit to the jobs market, with 33 full time jobs being created and at least 23 construction jobs supported.

Housing Minister Margaret Burgess MSP said: “Local people are at the heart of these projects, which, with the help of this funding, will transform the spaces around them.

"Not only do these projects transform town centres, but they stimulate economic growth, and support and create jobs throughout Scotland.

"Regenerating disadvantaged communities is a priority for this government."2

COSLA Spokesperson for Development, Economy and Sustainability Cllr Stephen Hagan said: "“Projects range from town centre regeneration schemes and community and business hubs, to more heritage based initiatives.

"The variety of projects being funded highlights the diversity of approaches to regeneration across Scotland, which is tailored and responsive to the needs of local communities.

“Despite the current very challenging financial climate regeneration continues to be a key focus for all Scottish local authorities, and I look forward to seeing these projects come to life and transform our communities over the coming years.”