Kilmarnock multi-storey car park demolition makes progress
The demolition of the multi-storey car park in Kilmarnock is continuing to make progress despite a number of complex issues hitting work.
The structure is expected to be removed by the end of July with work to tidy up the site being undertaken throughout August.
East Ayrshire Council has set up a Foregate Business Continuity Fund to support firms affected by ongoing work, which will provide targeted help to local eligible retail, hospitality and leisure businesses directly impacted by the multi-storey closure and demolition works.
The fund aims to support those most affected by providing short-term financial assistance to help sustain business operations.
The council's Economic Growth staff are also meeting the affected local traders to set out the grant proposals, eligibility criteria and evidence needed when submitting the online grant.
The council has now been informed that its application to the Active Travel Infrastructure Fund in respect of enhancements to public realm and active travel works once the car park is demolished has been unsuccessful.
It is working with the contractor to finalise the works they will undertake as part of the demolition contract whilst exploring opportunities for wider town centre regeneration which will incorporate this area.
Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: "We're very aware of the continued impact that the demolition has had on footfall within the immediate vicinity of the Foregate and the Council has supported businesses at this time through the introduction of the Foregate Business Continuity Fund. I would encourage customers to continue to support the local businesses.
"The contractor has reassured us that all possible measures have been put in place to meet the revised completion date while recognising that health and safety remains the first priority.
"This work is part of a huge multi-million pound regeneration of Kilmarnock that has included investment in the bus station, the planned refurbishment and modernisation of the Palace Theatre and Grand Hall, refurbishment of the Galleon Leisure Centre as well as developing further enhancements to the public realm and road network."
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