PLANS to transform a "frequently vandalised" building in Ayr have been lodged. 

Microtech, an Ayrshire manufacturing company, have applied to South Ayrshire Council for a change of use for the building on West Sanquhar Road. 

If approved, the building would be part changed for residential use, after lying empty for many years. 

The planning application states: "This proposal requests approval to convert a long-vacant commercial building into residential use.

"The building has been empty for years, frequently vandalized, and is in a deteriorating condition, with local residents voicing concerns.

"In 2018, it was purchased by a company with the intention of leasing it to a biotech firm. However the biotech firm closed during the pandemic.

"Despite previous renovation efforts, and five years of advertising at fair market price, no commercial interest was found.

"Changing the property to residential use will prevent further decay and enhance the neighbourhood."

The documents further state that the building is in poor condition, with decay exacerbated by the pandemic. 

It continues: "The roof was leaking leading to concerns about further structural damage if not addressed immediately.

"The leaks also created damage to part of the renovation work that was started in 2019, abandoned due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and later, the lack of interest from prospective tenants or buyers.

"The renovation work carried on included fixing the roof, removing rotten plaster board to avoid further mould and finishing the jobs left unfinish to avoid health and safety issues."

The full plans are available on South Ayrshire Council's planning portal using reference 24/00787/APP.