MSP leads plea for rethink of anti-terror barriers in Ayr

In response to recent complaints from constituents and businesses, Siobhian Brown says she has raised serious concerns about the barriers around Wellington Square and the Esplanade.

South Ayrshire Council announced last month that the barriers would be introduced on July 10, saying it has worked with counter-terrorism police on the measures, which it says are intended to "increase public safety during events".

The authority says the move is in response to "instances worldwide where events or heavily pedestrianised areas have been targeted and as a result, event organisers have to ensure that counter terrorism measures are in place".

Metal framed pedestrian arches have been installed on The Esplanade, along with traffic bollards and swing arm barriers at Wellington Square and Bath Place.

The kit has been loaned, free of charge, to the council by counter-terrorism police for a period of five years.

Ms Brown said: "When I first saw the bollards and barriers being installed around Wellington Square, I, like others, assumed it was for an event.

"I now discover that these traffic control measures are to remain in place for five years, along with new pedestrian control measures installed on The Esplanade.”

“Those businesses and constituents who have contacted me have questioned the need for such stringent measures in an area that rarely hosts major events.

Counter-terrorism barriers in London similar to the ones now in place at Wellington Square and the Esplanade. (Image: National Barrier Asset)

"I can count the number of events held during any single year on one hand. And they have never required such strict measures, despite the UK terror threat. 

“Whilst we want to encourage visitors to this beautiful part of South Ayrshire how does this eyesore persuade tourists of the beauty of our coastline and town?

"I’m told the barriers are already disrupting traffic. They are unwanted and unnecessary, and I urge South Ayrshire Council to rethink this decision and to consult the public.”

Announcing the introduction of the barriers last month, Jane Bradley, the local authority's director of communities and transformation, said: “We want people attending our events to enjoy themselves and feel safe at the same time, so these measures will help to maintain that sense of security.”

Councillor George Weir (SNP, Ayr West) said: “I was unaware of the planned counter terrorism measures until being informed that they were going ahead.

"I am especially concerned that, as a directly affected ward councillor, I was not party to any discussion or indication of this matter until late June, at which time this was presented in email as a forthcoming action.  

“I agree that the installations seem excessive. I have contacted the chief executive to ask how the decision was made to undertake these measures, and why I heard nothing prior to notice this was being done.  

"In the absence of any explanation or rationale, presently, I see these precautions as extreme.

"They are certainly unsightly and will have negative impact on the town as a destination for visitors.”

South Ayrshire Council says the measures will help the public feel safe during big events on the Low Green. (Image: Charlie Gilmour)

Brian Daly owns the nearby Wellington Bar, Abbotsford Hotel, the Brig and Billy Bridges.

He said: “It’s been quite disappointing to see these unsightly, and unnecessary, structures appear overnight without any public input.

"They create anything but a welcoming environment for visitors, who will no doubt have concerns as to why they’re needed in a town the size of Ayr.

"This will damage the town’s tourism image, and I don’t think we should allow that sector to suffer more than it has.

“If there truly is a concern about threats to a small number of large-scale events, then there are much more effective temporary solutions that could be used, the same as other towns and cities around the country do.”

South Ayrshire Council has been contacted for comment.