Ayr businesses struggling to get trade back after Station Hotel fire
MSPs are urging the council to communicate more directly with the shops
Last updated 16th Nov 2023
An Ayrshire MSP is calling for better communication between the council and local businesses who have been impacted by the Station Hotel fire.
Roads around the old building have been closed for nearly two months after a blaze ripped through it in late September.
Businesses on Smith Street have been left uncertain about when they will be able to get back to normal business, after they were forced to close for several days after the fire, and the street has remained shut since.
SNP MSP Siobhan Brown met with several businesses affected to discuss the issues they are facing, and they expressed concern that updates were being delivered on social media, rather than being directly communicated by the council.
"A lack of communication"
The MSP said: “The main theme I am hearing from business owners is that there has been a lack of communication with South Ayrshire Council.
“They are seeing updates on Facebook when a more personal approach should be taken.
“I wrote to the local authority after first meeting businesses and asked them to contact these people.
I also asked about any grant funding available and if the Economy Team were planning to visit shops affected.”
Losing out on Christmas business
As the Festive period approaches, shops are concerned about losing essential Christmas business.
Ms Brown is urging “swift action” on the issue, adding: “It is imperative that lines of communication stay open, and everything is done to help these businesses and the landlords who own the premises.”
When quizzed on the issue during First Minister’s Questions by MSP Sharon Dowie, First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Of course all of our hearts go with those communities that have been affected by the disruption due to the Ayr Station Hotel fire.
“I will ensure a written update is provided to Sharon Dowie in terms of the action we have taken, alongside our partners in Ayrshire.”
A spokesperson from South Ayrshire council said concerns for traders are set to be addressed by them tomorrow.