PLANS for the £10 million redevelopment of The Citadel Leisure Centre at Ayr Harbour have been approved.

Leisure development specialist, Alliance Leisure, is leading the project to revitalise the centre, which is used by some 300,000 people a year.

Working alongside Alliance Leisure are architect and principal designer, Holmes Miller, and principal contractor Robertson Construction Central West. 

Initial plans for the centre's redevelopment were lodged with South Ayrshire Council, showing the comprehensive work needed. 

The revamp will "address necessary repair work and see the introduction of exciting new facilities to enhance the user experience and create an inviting play, sports and recreation destination for both residents and visitors".

Works will include a new entrance and reception, new kitchen and servery, new dry change, studios, café, spa, family active hub, fitness gym, party rooms and first aid room. 

It will also involve the refurbishment of the wet change area, toilets and existing swimming pools.

The oldest element of the building was constructed as Ayr Baths and opened in 1971. The original baths were later extended during the 1990’s with additional leisure facilities and reopened as the Citadel Leisure Centre in 1997.

Planning documents state that there are upgrades required throughout the building, that will be included as part of the works.

There are also plans to create a new play area for children's parties and other events to utilise the space.

The plans have now been given the green light, subject to conditions including the undertaking of archaeological work.

Council planners said: "Overall, the proposed alterations are considered to be in keeping with and subsidiary to the existing facility with regard to design and materials.

"As such, the proposed development is not considered to result in a detrimental impact on either the amenity or appearance of the immediate locale.

"It is noted that the application site is situated adjacent to Ayr Central conservation area and the B listed Citadel Fortress.

"Given the nature of works proposed, it is considered that the proposed development, subject to a condition, will not have a detrimental impact on the character and appearance of the conservation area or the setting of the adjacent B-listed structure.

"It is considered that the proposals are in accordance with the South Ayrshire Local Development Plan and has no significant detrimental impact on the locality.

"Given the assessment of the proposal, and having balanced the applicant’s rights against the general interest, it is recommended that the application be approved subject to the conditions."