THE growth of Troon was praised as local community groups and retailers met with MSP John Scott.

As part of an initiative by Scotland’s Towns Partnership, the MSP met with a number of shops owners, as well as the general manager of the Marine Hotel on Tuesday, August 1, to learn more about future ideas and proposals for improvements to the town and its retail ventures.

As chairman to the cross-party Holyrood committee on town centres, Mr Scott is ‘keen’ to see Ayrshire at the ‘forefront of new ideas’.

He said: “I had a worthwhile and enlightening visit to Troon and was immediately struck by the forward looking and enthusiastic attitude of those whom I met.

“Troon has a wealth of opportunity with fine beaches and high-quality golf courses nearby. 

“Most importantly for the town centre we are seeing new businesses starting with existing shops developing and all being supported by the growing local community.

“We must not be complacent, however, and I will continue to work with the local authority, local business groups and interested bodies to ensure that every effort remains to keep Troon a vibrant seaside town.”

During his visit, along with Scotland’s Town Partnership, which aims to support town centre regeneration and bringing together local bodies and organisations whose aim is to improve their living environment, Mr Scott met representatives from the Business Association, Troon Community Council, the Marine Hotel and visited local businesses including The Herbary, Mode Menswear, Cardhu and Urquhart Opticians.

He praised the work of the Dementia Friendly initiative and went on to meet two members of Friends of Troon Beaches who are helping to keep public spaces litter free.