A DEVELOPMENT of new homes in the centre of Ayr has taken a major step closer to completion.

A milestone was passed with the completion of the steel frame supporting Ayrshire Housing’s 31 homes, just across from the famous Gaiety Theatre.

Councillor Martin Kilbride, South Ayrshire Council’s new portfolio holder for housing, and the Gaiety’ s chief executive Jeremy Wyatt tightened the final bolt.

Councillor Kilbride said: “I’m delighted that the council has been able to support this development.

“By bringing much needed housing into the town centre, it contributes to its ongoing renewal.”

Mr Wyatt added: “We’re enjoying watching this splendid development take shape.

“It’ll encourage further much needed investment in the town centre.”

Designed by Ayr based ARPL Architects, the flats are being built by the JR Group.

Craig Whyte, JR’s commercial director, commented: “The completion of the steel frame is a key moment for this landmark project.

“Steel was the best option for this tight site – its sustainability and tensile strength is making its use increasingly popular.”

Jim Whiston, Ayrshire Housing’s director, said: “It’s great to see the progress of this exciting project. It’ll increase the range of housing in the town centre with its focus on accessibility and adaptability.

“We’re especially pleased to be working with the Health and Social Care Partnership to integrate core and cluster housing into the overall housing mix.”

The £6 million six-storey project has been made possible by a grant from the Scottish Government.

It is due to be completed early in 2023.