Repairs work at the fire damaged Station Hotel in Ayr has hit another problem.

South Ayrshire Council revealed that recently discovered structure damage in the northern section of the building will cause further delays to the safety works timetable.

A council spokesperson said: "We know that this delay is frustrating for rail users and we are working closely with Network Rail and ScotRail to ensure that trains can operate from Ayr Station as soon as possible.

"We’ll continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available."

The fire on Monday, September 25 last year caused major structural damage - and threw South Ayrshire's rail service into chaos.

A council spokesperson added: "The fire caused extensive damage and we're dealing with a very complex situation.

"As we don't own this building, South Ayrshire Council can only undertake our statutory duty to remove sections that present an immediate risk to persons or property in places adjacent to the dangerous building.

"This means that we can't take a wrecking ball to the structure, and we have to work in a very controlled manner to prevent causing any further damage to the remainder of the building or the adjacent railway infrastructure."

Ayr Advertiser: Work on the Station Hotel

The council added: "The building is Category B listed, which again means we can't legally remove any more of the structure than absolutely necessary.

"Historic Environment Scotland are involved with the project and have been consulted throughout."

Campaigners have calling for the Station Hotel building to be saved as part of the town's heritage.

The council have confirmed they have yet to hear from the hotel's owner, who is based in Malaysia.

While work to secure the building continues, a shuttle train service is available from Ayr to Prestwick Station.

Please check https://www.scotrail.co.uk/ for the latest information.

A bus replacement service is available between Kilmarnock and Ayr, and Girvan and Ayr.

You can find the schedule on the ScotRail website.