South Ayrshire Council is looking for views from the public on proposals to remove and then scrap the MVF Watchful.

The former fishing vessel was decommissioned in the 1990s and installed at the dry dock on South Harbour Street in Ayr over 20 years ago.

The boat, which was put in place to commemorate fisherman who have lost their lives at sea, is in a really poor condition due to being exposed to adverse weather.

The council is proposing that the vessel is removed to improve access for water sports; a harbour art and heritage trail has also been proposed for the site.

Councillor Martin Kilbride, Buildings, Housing and Environment Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council, said: “Ayr beach is one of the busiest in Scotland and we have plans to completely transform the esplanade to make the most of this.

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"The removal of MVF Watchful would fit with those plans, giving more opportunities for activities such as water sports.”

Councillor Alec Clark, Tourism, Culture and Rural Affairs Portfolio Holder, said: “South Ayrshire has a unique maritime history, one that can be traced back hundreds of years.

"This is a chance to tell that story through heritage installations and also include a fitting tribute to those involved in the fishing industry who have lost their lives at sea.”

The consultation can be found at www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/consultations views can also be submitted by email to estates@south-ayrshire.gov.uk or, in writing to: Asset Management and Community Asset Transfer South Ayrshire Council County Buildings Wellington Square Ayr KA7 1DR.