A RAFT of changes to senior roles at South Ayrshire Council have been approved – including the appointment of a new depute leader of the authority.

The council’s ruling Conservative group wanted to replace Ayr West councillor Lee Lyons as depute leader, installing long-serving Troon councillor Bob Pollock in his place.

And the role of education portfolio holder was set to go to former SNP group leader William Grant, who left the party last month and now sits as an independent.

Councillor Grant, whose appointment to the education post has also been proposed by the Conservative group, previously held the same role when the SNP was in power before the 2022 local government elections.

Councillor William Grant, who represents the Maybole, North Carrick and Coylton ward, resigned from the SNP in July and now sits as an independent - was set to become South Ayrshire Council's policy lead on education.

Councillor Grant, who has represented the Maybole, North Carrick and Coylton ward since 2012, left his former SNP colleagues reeling when he made the shock move in July.

All of those moves have now been approved, alongside Councillor Hugh Hunter assuming responsibility for the Portfolio for Health and Social Care.

Councillor Martin Dowey, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “I am delighted that Councillor Pollock has been appointed Depute Leader of the Council.

"Councillor Pollock has considerable experience in public service and I’m sure he will hit the ground running.  He will also continue in his role as Portfolio Holder for Economic Development.

“I am also pleased to welcome Councillors Grant and Hunter as new members of the Cabinet. Councillor Hunter has served the people of South Ayrshire for many years and is passionate about the health and wellbeing of local people.

“In welcoming councillors to their new Cabinet roles, I would also like to take the opportunity thank Councillor Ferry and Councillor Lyons for the support they provided to the administration during their time as Portfolio Holders.”

Councillor Bob Pollock, Depute Leader of South Ayrshire Council and Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: "I am absolutely committed to the people of South Ayrshire, and it will be my pleasure and privilege to work alongside my colleagues in the Cabinet and the council’s leadership team to ensure we continue to deliver high quality services to local people.”

Councillor William Grant, Portfolio Holder for Education, said: “South Ayrshire has a fantastic educational service and I look forward to working to support the continued success and positive destinations of local children and young people.”

Councillor Hugh Hunter, Portfolio Holder for Education, said: “This is an important role which I am humbled to be entrusted with. I relish the challenge and will it give my all.”