A BUSY town centre road that has been closed for emergency repairs to a damaged section of sewer pipework could be shut for up to four weeks.

Scottish Water has been carrying out works at Ayr Harbour since Friday after the pipe became dislodged on Thursday evening (January 26).

South Harbour Street remains closed from the bottom of Fort Street to New Bridge Street and the utility firm has now confirmed that after assessing the damage the disruption is likely to last up to a month.

Diversions are in place with local access for residents, businesses and pedestrians, but no through route for vehicles.

Ayr Advertiser: The road closure could last up to four weeksThe road closure could last up to four weeks (Image: Scottish Water)

A spokeswoman for Scottish Water said: “We appreciate this is a very busy area of Ayr and that the road closure has led to a substantial diversion through the town.

"However, the closure is essential in order for our teams to work safely and for the safety of people in the area.

“Given the location of the pipe we can only work at low tide which makes this a complex repair which could take some time to carry out.

"We want to assure road users and the community we will do all we can to minimise disruption and complete the work as quickly as possible.

READ MORE: Emergency works to repair damaged section of sewer pipework at Ayr Harbour

“We appreciate the road closure will cause some delays in the coming weeks and inconvenience and apologise for this.

"We thank all road users and the community for their ongoing patience and understanding while we work on this vital repair.

"We will remain on site until the permanent repairs are complete and will continue to liaise and update the community including impacted residents and businesses.”

Diving teams are working with Scottish Water to ensure the work is carried out safely and pumps are onsite to over-pump waste water to minimise any potential environmental impact.

Scottish Water said it will continue to liaise with the local harbour authority, Marine Scotland and SEPA.