Drongan and Dalmellington police public counters are also set to be ditched under controversial cuts announced at the weekend.

Ayr Police Office will no longer be open 24 hours a day to the public but residents will be able to visit the station from 7am to midnight only.

The Police Scotland reforms, which will lead to the closure of dozens of public counters north of the border, have been criticised by South Ayrshire Labour Leader John McDowall.

Councillor McDowall said: “I am very disappointed that Police Scotland has decided to close the counter service in Girvan.

“My view is it is a further erosion of police services in Scotland.

“It is also very disappointing to hear Ayr Police Station is no longer going to be open 24 hours a day.” Residents in Girvan, Drongan and Dalmellington will have to dial 101 to arrange an appointment with an officer instead of visiting the local police station from March 3.

Girvan Councillor Alec Clark is saddened to lose the public police counter in his home town and said the cuts represent a general downgrading of rural services.

He said: “When the decision was taken to form Police Scotland - no-one was given any reason to think it would lead to closures. It is the denigration of a service, which has been available for many years. A resident may ring 101 to make an appointment but if an officer is busy, upholding the law always comes before seeing someone.” Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Mawson said: “We have listened to all the views put forward and made changes to reflect this but an effective, modern policing service must evolve to reflect the communities we serve. These changes allow us to ensure more of the right people with the right skills are available at the right time and in the right places to serve communities in a manner that reflects the way people now live their lives. The review of Public Counters has contributed to this with Police Scotland committed to maximising police officers on the street and in communities working to keep people safe and to provide the high standards of service the public expects.”