Road and rail closures around the fire-stuck Ayr Station Hotel will continue until January.

South Ayrshire Council also confirmed that part or all of the building may need to be demolished after the hotel was damaged in the September 25 fire.

Three teens were arrested in connection with the incident.

Free parking in the city centre from this Sunday until January 7 has also been introduced in an effort to encourage people into the town.

Read More: Council announce weekends of festivities in run up to Christmas

Station Road Bridge and roads surrounding the station are expected to reopen on January 10.

South Ayrshire Council leader Martin Dowey said: "Ensuring public safety is at the forefront of our concerns.

This means that temporary road closures at Ayr Train Station and Station Bridge Road are essential to keep everyone safe during the ongoing safety works.

"A key objective is to get both rail and road transport moving again as soon as possible, however, with the closures expected to last until around January 10, I want local retailers to know that the council is here to support them."