Ayr students have taken a trip to see a new sensory garden.

Primary five pupils from Doonfoot Primary school recently paid a visit to see the work in progress at the garden in the village set to open in June, and were invited to take part in a competition to name it.

Situated on Dunure Road, the sensory garden spans 3600 sq m (11800 sq ft) and will feature a new underpass, a wetland area, pathways and a board walk with a sensory route featuring an abundance of planting that will stimulate visitors’ senses through touch, sight, scent, taste and hearing.

Designed by environmental design company Sweco and developed by construction company Story Contracting, the garden forms part of a new active travel route spearheaded by South Ayrshire Council and Ayrshire Roads Alliance that is expected to eventually connect Ayr to Barassie.

Primary five classes at Doonfoot Primary joined representatives from all organisations to have a sneak preview of the work in progress and gain inspiration for the competition which will also involve pupils from primaries six and seven.

Councillor Bob Pollock, economic development portfolio holder for South Ayrshire Council, said: “The new garden is sure to be a big hit with locals and will help promote the many advantages of active travel including its negligible impact on nature. I can’t wait to see the finished garden and find out what it will be called.”

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Active Travel aims to encourage people to get out and about in their communities walking and cycling in preference to taking the car.

The sensory garden is one of many projects taking place throughout Ayrshire to encourage active travel.

David Manson, from Ayrshire Roads Alliance, added: “It’s fantastic to see the children enjoy the space and be inspired by nature.

"We’re really looking forward to seeing it in its full glory next month and hopefully in some sunshine.”

James O’Sullivan, senior project manager from Story Contracting, said: "Hosting the school visit and seeing the children's enthusiasm as they took part in the interactive engineering activity and had a go at sitting in a Story digger was fantastic for everyone on site.

“We were delighted to provide this unique opportunity to learn about our industry and hope to inspire the next generation with careers in construction."

Macauley Wardlaw, from Sweco, added: “It was great to see the enthusiasm from the children who attended the new sensory garden site.

"I am sure the children will do a fantastic job at picking a name for the garden and I am excited to see what they come up with.”

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