East Ayrshire Council is reconsidering its plans for a new mobility centre in Kilmarnock as part of the Foregate regeneration project, with a final decision expected later this summer. The council is exploring whether to repurpose vacant properties in the town centre instead of constructing a new building, after receiving funding from Transport Scotland for the scheme.
Funding and Options Under Review
During a full council meeting on Thursday, Councillor David Richardson raised concerns about delays affecting Transport Scotland funding already awarded for the project. Acting Depute Chief Executive David Mitchell explained that the funding was originally allocated to other councils that were unable to use it, and is tied to the delivery of a mobility centre.
Mitchell told councillors that the Cabinet had questioned whether building a new structure was the best use of resources when empty properties nearby could be converted. Officers have asked Transport Scotland if the funding could instead support public realm improvements if an existing building is used for the mobility centre.
Three Possible Scenarios
Mitchell outlined three potential outcomes if Transport Scotland insists on a new mobility centre: proceed with the full project and new building to utilise external funding, leave the project as is, or pursue a reduced public realm scheme funded by the council. A report detailing the options will be presented to councillors in August.
Concerns Over Policy Shift
Councillor Richardson expressed worry that the council was moving away from previously agreed plans, stating, “That really worries me. It sounds as if we’re trying to unwind something that I thought had actually been agreed upon.” He also questioned rumours that £600,000 worth of granite purchased for the project might be used elsewhere, but Acting Chief Executive Joe McLachlan dismissed this as “totally untrue.”
Reputation and Value for Money
Councillor Boyd asked whether changing the project could damage the council’s relationship with Transport Scotland. McLachlan responded, “There’s no reputational damage.” Mitchell added that the goal was to ensure public money represents value for money, saying, “It shouldn’t matter whose money it is. If we’re spending public money, it should be best value and for good sense and for good reason.” He emphasised taking time to get the proposals right, rather than rushing a plan councillors would reject.
A report on the Command town centre masterplan, including options for the Foregate project and Transport Scotland funding, is expected in August.
