A makeover for the dilapidated Newton Tower in Ayr has been given the go-ahead.

The proposals to reclad the 18th century structure, repaint the steeple and sandstone bands of the tower were approved by South Ayrshire Council planners under delegated powers.

Officers stated: “The site of the proposed development is the category B listed Newton Tower, which is prominently located at the junction of King Street and Main Street, Ayr.

“The tower, which was constructed in 1795, is the only surviving remnant of Newton’s Tolbooth, the remainder of which was demolished in 1967.

“Listed building consent is sought to remove the existing cement render to allow for the application of a lime based render, the repainting of the spire and the sandstone bands of the tower, and the repair and repainting of the timber louvres in the spire.”

Officers point out that the outside of the building ‘is in a state of significant disrepair’ with the render flaking off the walls in a number of areas.

The report continues: “The removal of the failing cement based render (which is trapping moisture within the building) and the application of an appropriate lime based breathable render represents best conservation practice, and is considered to preserve and enhance the character, appearance and setting of this prominently located listed building.

“The same can also be said of the repairs and repainting works proposed to other parts of the building, all of which are presently deteriorating in condition and adversely affecting the character and special interest of the building and the visual amenity.”

Historic Environment Scotland’s Canmore website provides more history of the building, stating: “The steeple was built in 1792-5 as the central feature of a town-house, most of which, along with the adjacent parish church, was demolished in 1967 for road-widening.”

The tower is over 21m high and had originally been part of a two story building. The belfry contains two bells cast by Thomas Mears, London in 1795.

The entry continues: "By 1792 the existing town-house was in a ruinous state, and a contract was made with John Neill, ‘mason in Wallacetown’, to erect a town-house and steeple,  according to a plan supplied by himself, for £425.”

Work will have to start within the next three years.