A DECISION to discuss the planning application for an underpass to connect the cycle path on Dunure Road has been put on hold.

The application should have been discussed at South Ayrshire’s Regulatory Panel last Thursday, June 7 but cllr Ian Cochrane, the Portfolio Holder delayed the decision making process for more information.

This was confirmed by cllr Siobhian Brown at the most recent Alloway and Doonfoot community council meeting.

Cllr Brown said: “There is £450,000 available from Sustrans to complete this project. But following what happened with the Holmston Road cycle path we are being extra careful that money will not be wasted.

“I am expecting the issue to be discussed at the Leadership Panel in August after the summer recess.”

If the application is approved it will mean the old railway tunnel, which connected the former railway line from Ayr to Dunure and further would be opened up and restored.

It would prevent cyclists, walkers and joggers from having to cross the 60mph Dunure Road and link the NCN7 and Alloway-Burton Cycleways.

The application states: “The site is bound on all sides by Council owned open space and is located to the south west of Ayr.

Planning permission is sought for the construction of an underpass below the A719 which will link the

NCN7 and Alloway-Burton Cycleways. 

“The proposed underpass would provide a safe passage between the aforementioned Cycleways without the requirement to cross the busy A719.

“The application is being reported to the Regulatory Panel as the Council owns the land. Two objections have been received.”

It is hoped there will be a positive outcome at the Leadership Panel in August.