AN APPLICATION to demolish a former fitness centre and build seven flats in Prestwick has already received more than 20 objections.

The building on Grangemuir Road, which is currently vacant and was last used as a fitness centre, has a proposed application submitted by Logan Bay Ltd to be demolished to erect a new block of flats comprising of seven apartments with two bedrooms.

The seven apartments will be over three floors and the proposals also include associated parking, hard and soft landscaping and drainage works.

It is claimed that the building has fallen into disrepair and is now considered to be “an eyesore.”

Close to the site, there are buildings including the Prestwick Sailing Club, Prestwick St. Nicholas Golf Club and a recently developed four storey apartment building.

A previous application was submitted for this site in 2016, however it was withdrawn dues to a number of issues.

In particular it was noted that LDP coast policy seeks to create “opportunities to invest, live and work in South Ayrshire’s coastal areas” and aims to “protect or improve the scenic and environmental quality of the area”.

The planning officers comments went on to suggest the main issues are around design, scale, open space provision, as well as impact on the coastal landscape.

Later comments suggested either a contemporary and more traditional design solution could achieve the application to be accepted for another proposal for the build.

Concerns were raised in respect of coastal flooding, and the planning officer advised that much of the site is within a SEPA coastal flooding zone. The LDP Coastal Strategy requires that coastal development “should be appropriately sited to avoid effects associated with managing current and predicted flood and erosion risk.”

The proposal has already racked up 24 objections from Prestwick locals.

Neighbours to the site received letters through their doors explaining the new application and could express their views through the South Ayrshire Council planning website.

One objector, Prestwick St. Nicholas Golf Club, sent in a letter explaining that the issue of flooding still remains and the proposed development would restrict visual amenities to the golfers and residents.

They said: “Due to the scale, mass and density of the proposed development, there will be a loss of visual amenity not only to Prestwick St. Nicholas Golf Club but to the promenade and other adjacent properties on Grangemuir Road, St Ninians Road and Marina Road in Prestwick.”

Another objector, added: “Once again, I must object to the development of this site. It appears to me the applicant is determined to keep applying for planning permission with the intent of wearing down local objections.

“This development is likely to add to the flooding under the railway bridge in Grangemuir Road. Pedestrian access under this bridge is already a problem, which the increased traffic would only intensify.

Although there are a number of objections, many locals took to social media, expressing their views.

Susan Docherty, said: “Glad to see it being thought about. It can only enhance that spot as it’s an eyesore just now.”

Moira Malcolm, said: “It would be amazing for a more relaxed cafe bar with acoustic live music and a place where teens could hang out during the day.

“The Prestwick bars are busy and this location has something else to offer with a wonderful view of our glorious sunsets.”

Pam Johnston, added: “I think it would be an ideal spot for a dog friendly cafe, when you take into consideration the amount of dogs that get walked down there in summer and winter.

“It would be great to pop in for coffee, cake and a drink for the dog - something along the lines of the Poppy Room in Troon.”

The application is due to come before a planning board in the coming months.