A move to restore an historic Ayr building gutted by fire has been approved.

Planners have approved work at 17-21 High Street, a B-Listed property built in the early 19th Century, sited next to the Town Hall.

It is claimed that the work will not only repair the building but ‘improve’ the area.

A fire ripped through the building in May 2020. The blaze reportedly took hold in the attic and damaged businesses – including the World of Art, which had been trading there for more than four decades.

The severity of the flames was such that six fire engines were called to the scene.

A planning report outlined the damage the building suffered: “A fire occurred at the application site which has damaged the roof and second floor structure of the building.

“The ground and first floors are affected by water and smoke damage.”

"Extensive work is required to restore the building.

“This includes the erection of new roof, repainting the exterior, repairing a staircase, stonework, refurbishing windows and ironworks, and replacing interior doors".

The work will be ‘sensitive to the historic nature of the building’ according to planners.

It continues: “The alterations are not considered to have a negative impact on the character or setting of the listed building.

“The proposed works represent sound practice for the repair and maintenance of the listed building.

“The works will bring the bulding back into its existing use by upgrading and enhancing the existing property.”

Officials added: “The proposals are also considered to improve the area’s character and appearance which are also considered to be sensitive to the historic nature of the building.

“Overall, it is considered that the proposals will preserve the character and appearance of the conservation area.”