AYR Grammar could be sold for housing once pupils have moved into the former Ayr Academy.

Other options being considered for the old primary school building include an archive centre or a museum. 

It has been confirmed for some time, that Ayr Grammar will close but it not yet clear what will happen to the education establishment once it has shut down.

The issue was discussed at a recent public meeting held at Ayr Town Hall. Liz Martin raised concerns about the future of the former place of learning.

Former cllr Bill Grant confirmed that Ayr Grammar will close with the council investing heavily in Ayr Academy to turn it into a town based primary school.

Mr Grant said that the Grammar may be sold for ‘housing or even an archive centre’. He also added that site is in a good, accessible position, but the costs of creating a suitable environment could be high.

Liz Martin also suggested a museum would be a good idea. Allan Dorans added that he would like to see a cultural heritage centre on the ground floor of the Town Hall, highlighting the mining and fishing history of the area.

But a report previously submitted to a panel highlighted that the internal hall was not for PE as it is also used for dining/assemblies and has a number of classrooms that are accessed from it. 

The space is not sufficient for the school to provide the required two hours PE a week resulting in the school having to access off site facilities. 

The school grounds are small and inadequate for the number of children attending the school and parking is very poor. The upper floors are access via a single staircase and there is no lift for children or adults with mobility problems.

If the property were converted into houses, an archive centre or a museum it would appear that work would have to be carried out to restore the building to its former glory. Storage and staff accommodation have also been described as extremely poor.

It is not yet clear what the outcome will be but we understand that discussions will be carried out in due course now that the new council has been elected.