Housing bosses have kickstarted plans to build council homes on the site of the John Pollock Centre and high flats in Ayr.

A community centre is also to be erected on the Mainholm Road plot to replace the well-used John Pollock building once it is demolished. 

The new one and two-bedroom bungalows and flats in Dalmilling are being offered to tower block residents from Riverside Place, if they want them. 

The homes are to be erected on the playing field behind the John Pollock Centre and on the site of the property once it is razed.

The council’s strategic housing investment plan said more than 100 properties could be constructed on the plot. 

A total of 90 one and two-bedroom properties would be built in Riverside Place.

High flat residents will get “priority”over existing applicants on the council housing waiting list unless cases are urgent. 

Speaking at the South Ayrshire Council Leadership panel last week, Councillor Philip Saxton asked for officials to keep high flat residents in the loop. 

He said: “Thanks to the residents for their patience.”

People living in the tower blocks also have the option to move into a new development in Waggon Road in Ayr. 

A paper presented to councillors said: “An area of the Mainholm site has been set aside for a potential community facility.”

Council staff based at the centre are to move out next year. 

South Ayrshire Council is on course to deliver an affordable home target on time, the meeting on Tuesday heard.