Former Ayr Station Hotel Fire - statement from the Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Martin Dowey

This is an archived article from 27 September 2023. 

"Like many local people, I was shocked to see the devastating fire sweep through the former Ayr Station Hotel building.

"It's no secret that, due to the condition of the privately owned building, the Council wanted to move forward with the demolition of the south wing.  However, our intention was to work towards preserving the tower and north wing sections, so this is a very sad outcome indeed.

"I want to extend my thanks and gratitude to the Emergency Services who have been on site since the fire broke out on Monday afternoon.  The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's stellar effort to battle the blaze has meant that, thankfully there have been no casualties.

"Emergency Services are still on site and the Council will await instruction from them as to when it's safe for our Building Standards team to carry out an assessment of the structural integrity of the building.

"I know the fire has caused disruption to residents and businesses in the vicinity and people who rely on the rail network to travel to and from Ayr and beyond.  It's a priority to work with partners to see trains running again as quickly as possible."