SOUTH Ayrshire councillors have agreed new designs for the redevelopment of Burns Statue Square in Ayr.
Subject to planning, work on the £16 million project – which has received funding from the UK Government’s Local Regeneration Fund – is expected to start early 2027.
The new design will create a distinct new gateway to the town centre and a welcoming civic space that supports residents, visitors, and businesses – whilst also celbrating the square’s heritage by embracing Robert Burns’ love of nature. Based on public opinion, the new design embraces more greenery and a stronger local identity with improved accessibility and loading bays for businesses.
Burns Statue Square has been a defining landmark in Ayr town centre since the early 19th century. Originally developed as a key arrival point from the railway station, the square evolved into a major transport interchange and commercial hub. Its cultural significance was cemented in 1882 with the unveiling of the bronze statue of Robert Burns by architect George A Lawson, followed by the South African War Memorial in 1902, created by Thomas Brock.
