FLOODLIGHTS that were planned for the car park next to Marr College’s all-weather playing fields have been approved by South Ayrshire Council.

It was reported a few weeks ago by the Troon Times that plans were put forward to light up a dangerously dark car park next to the fields and the council have now given the nod to the plans.

Currently, there are no lights in the car park leading to the area, which has created issues for drivers and visitors in the past as well as a risk to children in the car park.

In the winter months, it has been reported to be completely dark, however plans to light up the car park were opposed by local resident Mr. Anderson.

Though Mr Anderson had no objection towards the lights he felt there was a case against the times the lights would in operation to.

He said at the meeting: “We have no objection to the playing fields, but the existing lights give us a lot of light pollution.

“It is accepted that this is a road issue, however I have been told the lights would be turned off at 8.45pm but I am hearing after 9pm from others.”

Councillor William Grant said: “It is nice to see lighting in a car park being discussed.”

It was confirmed by Lynne Yule; the applicant, that the floodlights would only be in use when the playing fields or changing rooms were being used and lights would be terminated at 9pm ideally.

She also confirmed that efforts were being made to stop light overspilling into gardens.

Prestwick councillor Hugh Hunter said: “It is really important that the residents have thr same information as planning officers.”

It was also confirmed to Councillors that janitors will be in charge of the lighting rather than committees.

Councillor Peter Convery of Troon, who chaired the meeting was happy to approve the plans.

He said: “Everything stops at 9pm, we have had lots of problems with it being completely dark, especially in the winter time.

“Children are often running around and it is an issue for road safety.”
Councillor Nan McFarlane supported the decision to submit plans for lights previously.

She said: “It is very badly needed, someone was going to get killed in there. 

“Kids are going straight into pitch darkness. For safety reasons we need it.”