Plan to convert historic mansion in Ayr into luxury flats given go-ahead by council
Seafield House has lain empty for decades
Last updated 18th Nov 2019
An historic Ayr mansion will be saved after plans for 37 homes were given the go-ahead.
Seafield House has lain empty for nearly 30 years.
But developer Robin Ghosh has now secured planning permission to convert the building into 10 flats with 20 car park spaces.
And 27 four and five bedroom houses complete with garages will be built on the grounds.
Objectors voiced concerns about hundreds of trees being chopped down to make way for builders.
Mr Ghosh said his firm Econstruct had poured “considerable resources” into making sure the landmark survives for future generations.
Justifying the building of 27 houses, he said they are necessary to absorb the financial hit of transforming the crumbling former Seafield hospital.
South Ayrshire Council’s regulatory panel heard there is a blanket tree preservation order on the site.
But it is understood 446 trees will be chopped down.
Councillors decided saving the endangered building took precedence over the trees.
Former bank manager Alison Donnan who lives near the Seafield property said: “The prospect of the trees being cut down fills me with absolute horror.”
She pointed out the area was rich with wildlife.
Another objector John Lees said the removal of mature trees on coastal land between two rivers could have a “significant effect” on flooding in this time of climate change.
He was worried about the impact of more vehicles on Doonfoot and Seafield Roads.
The Doonfoot Road pile was once home to famous Scottish engineer William Arrol.
Later it was a hospital for sick children before it closed in the early 1990s.
Friends of Seafield House support the planning application.
Representing the group, architect Patrick Lorimer said: “One reason the building survived a fire and years of neglect is its iron frame structure.
“That frame was designed by Arrol.”
“It is time Ayr took some action to preserve its heritage. This would seem the ideal opportunity.”
Econstruct Estates Seafield has teamed up with Glasgow Westpoint Homes to deliver the development.
Councillor Craig Mackay pointed out there are no affordable homes or a play area as part of the proposed development.
He said: “I recognise without the new development we would lose another historic building in Ayr. “
Councillor Ian Cavana said he didn’t want see another “Holmston House” which has lain empty for several years.
He voiced concern about the loss of trees and said it was ironic that no bats were spotted during a wildlife survey at the site.
He said: “I have to take the word that no bats have been seen.”
Mr Ghosh said 200 trees would be planted and no protected species were found during the survey.
Bats, otters and great crested newts are among the wildlife that are covered by the special protection.
Councillors approved the application.
One resident was heard muttering it is a joke as people left the council chambers.
A crowd of supporters chatted outside the meeting room afterwards in celebratory mood.
NHS Ayrshire &Arran objected to the proposals for a number of reasons including parking concerns.
One problem voiced in the NHS objection said: “The works proposed to the former bus shelter, lie within the board’s title and no permission has been sought or given.”
The board operates the neighbouring Arrol Park Resource centre.
Bosses are worried about visitors to the development parking in Arrol Park.
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