Members of Annanhill Golf Course recently . . . → Read More: Dog owners urged to act responsibly]]> East Ayrshire has a wealth of beautiful green spaces such as parks, gardens and golf courses which residents and visitors alike can enjoy throughout the year. However, this enjoyment of the great outdoors is being marred by the irresponsible behaviour of a small number of local dog owners.

Members of Annanhill Golf Course recently expressed concern about the behaviour of some dog owners who use the course to exercise their dogs and others who do not clean up after their dogs. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code clearly states that dogs should be kept on a lead at all times when crossing a golf course and dog owners have a duty to abide by these rules.

At Dean Castle Country Park there has been an increase in the amount of dog fouling and the number of dog attacks on the park’s animals. The park is used by a large numbers of families every day and dog owners have a responsibility to help keep the area free of dog mess, as dog faeces can prove dangerous for young children. Dogs must be kept on a short lead in the Urban Farm and the surrounding paddocks to protect the birds and livestock.

East Ayrshire Council will take action against irresponsible dog owners and the public are being urged to report instances of dog fouling, with as many details as possible of where and what time of day this is occurring, to the Council’s Corporate Enforcement Team, based within the Environmental Health Service, who will pursue and issue fines to irresponsible owners who refuse to clean up dog mess.

The Environmental Health Service is also responsible for issuing Dog Control Notices (DCNs), which can be used to ensure that dogs are kept under control either by being muzzled or kept on a lead; having the dog micro-chipped for identification purposes and ensuring that the owner attends dog behaviour classes. In extreme cases the Council may apply for an order to have a dog destroyed. Since February 2011 the Council has issued eight – the second highest number of Dog Control Notices (DCN) in Scotland.

If you have any concerns regarding the aggressive behaviour of a dog or have information regarding dog owners not cleaning up after their dog, please contact the Corporate Enforcement Unit: 01563 554007.

For more information on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, or if you have information about owners not cleaning up after their dog , or to report a dog attack at Dean Castle Country Park, please contact the Rangers: 01563 554734.

If dogs are causing a nuisance on a local municipal golf course, please contact Outdoor Amenities Service Office: 01563 554061.

Please contact Strathclyde Police if you have witnessed a dog attack on a person or another animal.

Background Information

The Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010

This legislation allows the local authority to serve a Dog Control Notice on the owner of a dog where the dog is not being kept under control effectively and consistently, or if its behaviour gives rise to alarm, or apprehensiveness on the part of any individual, and the individual’s alarm or apprehensiveness is, in all circumstances, reasonable. East Ayrshire Council has a number of authorised officers to deal with this type of issue, and welcome any information relating to out of control dogs.

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

This Act is enforced by the Police, and applies in any place, even in a person’s home, and allows the Police to take action where a dog is dangerously out of control or has attacked.

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Sales of part-worn tyres are on the increase as more motorists see them as a money saving alternative to new tyres. However, recent Trading Standards surveys, both nationally and locally, have revealed . . . → Read More: Dangers of part worn tyres]]> East Ayrshire Council’s Trading Standards Service has recently completed an operation which has highlighted safety concerns over the sale of part-worn tyres.

Sales of part-worn tyres are on the increase as more motorists see them as a money saving alternative to new tyres. However, recent Trading Standards surveys, both nationally and locally, have revealed that some part-worn tyres are not fit for the road and are potentially dangerous.

Trading Standards officers examined part-worn tyres being offered for sale and found that over 40% failed to comply with the legal safety requirements. Some damaged tyres can be repaired and reused, but officers discovered that many tyres had not been repaired in accordance with the British Standard, some had structural damage and one had a nail still embedded in the tread. All the tyres examined which were found to be illegal have now been destroyed.

In the current economic climate, motorists may be tempted to look for a less expensive option when replacing tyres. Part-worn tyres are an option, but some defects cannot be immediately identified by the untrained eye and motorists are advised to be very careful if making this choice.

East Ayrshire Council’s Trading Standards Service will continue to take strong action against traders who attempt to sell illegal tyres.

For further help and advice, contact the Trading Standards Service at Civic Centre South, John Dickie Street, Kilmarnock, online at www.east-ayrshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards or by telephone on 01563 576602.

The competition invited nominations from all over the country in a quest to locate Scotland’s most deserving public structure for a free metal make-over. Dozens of entries flooded . . . → Read More: Kilmarnock Foregate sculpture crowned Brighten Scotland champ]]> The sculpture which graces Kilmarnock’s Foregate car park has sped ahead of the competition and bagged the top prize in the hit nationwide contest, Brighten Scotland.

The competition invited nominations from all over the country in a quest to locate Scotland’s most deserving public structure for a free metal make-over. Dozens of entries flooded in from around Scotland, vying for the judges’ attention, but the sculpture adorning Kilmarnock’s multi-storey car park has come out top and scooped the colourful prize.

Over the next few weeks, the car park’s gable artwork will be taken down and transformed using Colourgalv– a fusion of traditional hot-dip galvanizing and powder colour coating – to give a bright finish capable of fending off the Ayrshire elements for up to a century. The colour scheme will be decided by East Ayrshire Council and the revamped centrepiece will be unveiled in due course.

The sculpture made its debut on the car park in the 1990s and remains in good condition thanks to the previous galvanized coating, but the grey finish makes it almost impossible for passers-by to pick out the impressive detail of the piece.

Geoff Crowley, Managing Director of Highland Galvanizers & Colour Coaters said: “This winning structure perfectly demonstrates the philosophy behind Brighten Scotland.

“The mounted sculpture is a beautiful piece of art but blends into its surroundings instead of standing out.

“Giving the artwork a colour coating will draw attention to the detail of the sculpture and breathe new life into Kilmarnock’s main shopping area.

“The Highland team is very much looking forward to transforming Kilmarnock’s winning structure and showing local residents and visitors to the town just how much difference a little colour can make to our surroundings.”

The judging panel was faced with a very strong shortlist but felt the artwork in Kilmarnock presented a great opportunity to brighten up the built environment and highlight a hidden artistic gem.

Other structures to make the shortlist included seating in Gordon Park in Ellon in Aberdeenshire, a sculpture at Kildonan Museum on South Uist, a set of park benches in Cunningham-Watt park in Stewarton, fencing around the Robert Burns statue in Paisley’s Fountain Park and the gates to Duns Park in the Scottish Borders.

Councillor Jim Buchanan spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration of East Ayrshire Council said: “We’re delighted that Kilmarnock’s Multi Storey Car Park has won this striking makeover.

“This treatment will give a new emphasis to the design of the metalwork on the building and provide a strong focal point for Kilmarnock Town Centre at a time when we are actively regenerating and promoting it as a great place to work, shop and live.”

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Issued by The BIG Partnership on behalf of Highland Galvanizers and Colour Coaters
For more information please contact:
Debbi Jennings or Gavin Cameron on 0141 333 9585

From Monday 3 October the work to enclose Kilmarnock bus station will be completed. By adding screens to the roof at both ends of the concourse, the station will be . . . → Read More: Smoking stamped out at bus station]]> Passengers and visitors to Kilmarnock Bus Station can bid farewell to a horrible smoky atmosphere and breathe in some very welcome fresh air.

From Monday 3 October the work to enclose Kilmarnock bus station will be completed. By adding screens to the roof at both ends of the concourse, the station will be more than 50% enclosed and this means it will be illegal to smoke within the bus station.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “Kilmarnock Bus Station is the gateway into the town for many visitors and members of the community and, speaking frankly, it has been a smoky and unpleasant place to visit. The Corporate Enforcement Unit has worked very hard to tackle both littering and smoking within the bus station and will now be carrying out joint patrols with Strathclyde Police, Burns Mall security and Stagecoach to monitor the area and issue fines of £50 to anyone caught smoking.”

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council wholly supports the work of the Corporate Enforcement Unit and the work undertaken to make Kilmarnock Bus Station a nice place to visit. He said: “There is no doubt that the work undertaken by the Corporate Enforcement Unit will make a huge difference to Kilmarnock Bus Station. Not only will we be able to tackle the smoky atmosphere but we will also be able to deal with littering associated with smoking. To compliment this work I have asked for the bus station to be given a deep clean and the whole area to be tidied up. There will also be new art projects carried out in conjunction with local school children which will help improve the overall experience of using the bus station.

“In addition, I am delighted to announce that there will now be a full time Burns Mall security guard stationed in the waiting room from Monday 26 September and this will tackle the antisocial behaviour which can occur at times. Action is also being taken within the Burns Mall to stop antisocial behaviour occurring after the shops have closed. The section of Burns Mall from Foregate Square to Argos and Boots will be closed on a permanent basis but the section from the underpass to the Cross will remain open at all times.

“Kilmarnock is a great town, full of community spirit and we want as many people as possible to enjoy our town centre. We will do everything in our power to make Kilmarnock the best town it can be.”

Alison McCluskie, the manager of the Stagecoach depot in Kilmarnock said: “This decision has come at a great time for Kilmarnock as we are seeing an increase in passengers on all our services and the bus station is the main hub for public transport in Kilmarnock. If we all work together on this then the bus station will be a much nicer place for workers and passengers alike.”

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The Minister visited the North West . . . → Read More: Minister visits key regeneration sites]]> The Minister for Local Government and Planning, Aileen Campbell MSP was welcomed to East Ayrshire by Council Leader, Councillor Douglas Reid to view the extensive regeneration and building work being carried out throughout the area and see the tangible benefits of partnership working between local Community Planning Partners.

The Minister visited the North West Area Centre and toured the facility with Councillor Reid and Councillor Jim Buchanan to experience the extremely successful approach, developed by East Ayrshire Council and its Community Planning Partners, to delivering joined-up services. Under one roof local residents can visit a doctor, pay a bill, see a dentist and even keep fit. The North West Area Centre is also home to an award winning family centre that provides a nurturing environment for vulnerable young children.

After a tour of the centre Ms Campbell met Amanda Coulthard, Assistant Director, Policy, Planning and Performance, NHS Ayrshire and Arran; Heather Dunk, Principal of Kilmarnock College and Chief Superintendent John Thomson who confirmed the importance of Community Planning and the strong links between partners across East Ayrshire.

Councillor Reid said: “The Community Plan is East Ayrshire Council’s sovereign planning document and we have recently completed our Four-yearly Review strengthening our partnership with our local community planning partners. Community planning puts local people at the heart of delivering services. It is not just about creating a plan or a vision but about using our combined resources to tackle major issues such as health, transport, employment, housing, education and community safety. The North West Area Centre is the perfect example of community planning in action.”

After meeting at the North West Area Centre Councillor Reid travelled to Knockroon with Ms Campbell where they met Adam Ingram, MSP – but not before a whistle stop tour of the Council’s multi million pound building and regeneration sites including the new state of the art special school for Kilmarnock, Willowbank; the new Children’s House at Baird Place which will provide a welcoming home to six looked after children from the Kilmarnock area; Dean Ford; the Kilmarnock Athletics Track and the main town centre sites – the Opera House, the Johnnie Walker Bond and Barclay House.

Councillor Reid said: “The Council’s multi-million pound Capital Programme is enabling regeneration throughout the area and creating construction jobs at a time when the sector is suffering from the downturn in the global economy. The diversity of building work taking place across East Ayrshire means that all of our communities will benefit from the extensive works already underway.

“Partnership working is key to the success of so many of our projects in East Ayrshire and at Knockroon, HRH The Prince Charles’ charity – The Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment – has set out to create a sustainable mixed-use development on the Dumfries House Estate near Cumnock which will be the first of its kind in Scotland. The site will create employment and help to regenerate the whole area. I was therefore delighted to introduce the Minister to Ian and Anne Hope of Hope Homes who are developing the site and to see the significant progress that is being made with completion of the first block of 22 homes.”

Knockroon is situated on the Dumfries House estate and the Minister’s visit concluded with a tour of Dumfries House – a wonderful tourist attraction saved for the nation in 2007 by a consortium led by HRH The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay. The estate has established itself as an exciting tourist destination drawing a large number of visitors to the Cumnock area. However there are many more exciting plans in the pipeline for Dumfries House and Estate including the development of a boutique Hotel and bunk house style accommodation within the Old Laundry Building which would enable young people to visit and enjoy the estate.

Local Government Minister Aileen Campbell said: “I was pleased to be in East Ayrshire to see some tremendous projects and have an introductory meeting with the Council. I welcome East Ayrshire’s work with community planning partners to put a greater focus on service users. This is delivering tangible benefits to citizens, and in the constrained financial circumstances we need councils to focus on outcomes and deliver more effective public services. I also saw the regeneration around Knockroon, a great new, sustainable community where people will want to come and live and work – that is exactly in line with our vision of an economy which gives communities a better quality of life and protects the environment for future generations.”

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Patrols will be taking place in areas where complaints about dog fouling are high namely Stewarton, Kilmarnock and Cumnock. Officers will also be focusing their patrols on our parks which will . . . → Read More: Poop Scoop Week 2011]]> The Corporate Enforcement Unit will be hitting the streets next week for National Poop Scoop Week – Monday 25 to Friday 29 July.

Patrols will be taking place in areas where complaints about dog fouling are high namely Stewarton, Kilmarnock and Cumnock. Officers will also be focusing their patrols on our parks which will include Kay Park, Howard Park, Dean Castle Country Park, Broomfield Park and Woodroad Park.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “The Corporate Enforcement Unit will be out patrolling during National Poop Scoop week and will be issuing Fixed Penalty Notices to dog owners who do not clean up after their dogs. This is a serious issue – dog fouling affects our streets and our beautiful green spaces and the Council will be taking a hard line against thoughtless dog owners.”

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But each year the Council’s Environmental Health Service receives hundreds of calls regarding seagulls and their nests. This can range from birds attacking local residents to nests blocking ventilation ducts and drains.

Councillor Jim . . . → Read More: Help Stop Seagull Menace]]> Seagulls normally conjure up images of the seaside and days out – not attacking people in town centres.

But each year the Council’s Environmental Health Service receives hundreds of calls regarding seagulls and their nests. This can range from birds attacking local residents to nests blocking ventilation ducts and drains.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “Seagulls and pigeons can cause a real nuisance in our town centres – seagulls particularly can be very aggressive birds and often attack people during their nesting season. They can harbour a whole range of diseases including TB and Salmonella plus ticks, mites and fleas which can also pose health problems.

“There is a very simple way of addressing this problem and we need your help. Please stop feeding the gulls, dispose of rubbish at home in an appropriate way, protect your own property against nesting seagulls and please don’t drop food waste in our town centres. If food sources aren’t available for these birds they will return to their natural habitat.”

For further information please contact Environmental Health on 01563 554022.

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Daily patrols by the CEU throughout East Ayrshire are complemented by large scale initiatives like the recent Litter Day of Action which was . . . → Read More: Littering is tackled head on]]> 27 Fixed Penalty Notices have been issued so far this year by the Corporate Enforcement Unit (CEU) and this figure will continue to rise as officers tackle littering throughout our area.

Daily patrols by the CEU throughout East Ayrshire are complemented by large scale initiatives like the recent Litter Day of Action which was the perfect opportunity for the unit to join with our Community Planning Partners from Strathclyde Police and colleagues from the Council to encourage people to stop littering.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “The CEU is performing a very important task in our communities. Sadly litter blights our communities but we are taking a strong stance and are issuing FPN’s of £50 to anyone caught littering. Kilmarnock Bus Station has been the focus of a large number of joint patrols as people continue to drop all kinds of litter from cigarette ends, to drinks bottles to fast food wrappers.

“As part of the Litter Day of Action I asked employees from Outdoor Amenities to keep all the litter collected so we could highlight just how much is dropped in a short period of time. In just two days we collected approximately 65 bags of dropped rubbish from Kilmarnock town centre and the bus station alone. Littering is littering no matter where it takes place and people should be aware that they will be issued with a fine if caught.”

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Patrols will be running throughout East Ayrshire and action will be taken against anyone caught littering.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety . . . → Read More: Action Against Litter]]> The Corporate Enforcement Unit and their partners from Strathclyde Police will be pounding the streets on Thursday 9 June for the Keep Scotland Beautiful National Litter Day of Action.

Patrols will be running throughout East Ayrshire and action will be taken against anyone caught littering.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “We are very serious about tackling environmental crime and on a daily basis the Corporate Enforcement Unit is out in our communities taking a zero tolerance approach to littering. Research shows that enforcement and fines are one of the biggest deterrents to dropping litter and on the National Litter Day of Action we will be issuing Fixed Penalty Notices of £50 to anyone caught dropping litter.”

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A member of the public contacted the unit to let them know that a significant amount of waste had been dumped in the local countryside. The CEU immediately . . . → Read More: CORPORATE ENFORCEMENT SUCCESS]]> The Corporate Enforcement Unit has struck a blow against local environmental crime after a detailed investigation led to a big fine for a fly tipper.

A member of the public contacted the unit to let them know that a significant amount of waste had been dumped in the local countryside. The CEU immediately swung into action carrying out a detailed investigation of the dumped items. From the paper work that had been dumped, the unit contacted a takeaway in Darvel who confirmed that some of the items had belonged to one of their shops. This trail then led to the perpetrator of the crime who had taken money to remove the waste – which included sofas, knives and paperwork – then dumped it illegally.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “The Corporate Enforcement Unit carried out a very detailed investigation which led to an organised environmental criminal being given a significant fine. Officers from the unit worked very closely with Strathclyde Police who cautioned and charged the offender from our information. The Procurator Fiscal offered the accused to settle out of court and issued a £400 fiscal fine.

“This is a real result for the Corporate Enforcement Unit and a clear message that we will take firm action against all environmental criminals!”

Officers from the Environmental Health Department have been trained and authorised in the use of these new controls which, it is hoped, will reduce the . . . → Read More: NEW DOG CONTROL POWERS IN FORCE]]> The Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010 has come into effect and is giving local authorities new powers to serve Dog Control Notices on the owners of dangerous dogs.

Officers from the Environmental Health Department have been trained and authorised in the use of these new controls which, it is hoped, will reduce the number of instances of aggressive and potentially dangerous dogs in our neighbourhoods. They will be working closely with our Community Planning partners within Strathclyde Police to ensure our neighbourhoods are protected from the menace of aggressive dogs.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “The new powers can require dog owners to do a number of different things to make sure their dogs are under control, such as keeping their dog muzzled, on a lead or both; having the dog micro-chipped for identification purposes and requiring the owner to attend dog behaviour classes. In extreme cases the Council can now apply for an order to have a dog destroyed. Previously legislation only dealt with dogs that had actually attacked people however the new Act also deals with dogs which have attacked other animals.

“The Council relies on members of the public coming forward with complaints to help deal with animals causing potential danger and any complaints are dealt with in strictest confidence.”

If you wish to make a complaint or require further details on the Act and how the Council is going to apply it contact the Environmental Health Department on 01563 554022.

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The Council’s Corporate Enforcement Unit, which was formed in 2008 to tackle environmental crime, responds to complaints regarding dog fouling but also carries out pro-active patrols throughout East Ayrshire in an attempt to . . . → Read More: DOG FOULING TARGETED BY CORPORATE ENFORCEMENT UNIT]]> Dog fouling isn’t just unpleasant it is a crime which can lead to on the spot fines and even prosecution.

The Council’s Corporate Enforcement Unit, which was formed in 2008 to tackle environmental crime, responds to complaints regarding dog fouling but also carries out pro-active patrols throughout East Ayrshire in an attempt to detect and deter those who do not clean up after their dogs.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “Our Corporate Enforcement Unit is working extremely hard throughout East Ayrshire targeting environmental crime which includes littering, illegal dumping and dog fouling. They are a small but effective team who work in partnership with Strathclyde Police carrying out joint proactive patrols and responding to calls from the public.

“Recent successful initiatives have shown that a strong partnership between the community and the unit is the most effective way of tackling the problem of dog fouling. By responding to specific information from members of the public our team can target individuals in a focused way. I would therefore urge our community to call the team on 01563 554022/23 and provide them which as much detailed information as they can. Together we can tackle this problem which blights our streets.”

The unit was out patrolling Kilmarnock and Crosshouse at 7am on Saturday 12 March. This led to an individual being fined £40 for failing to remove mess left by their dog immediately. This not only demonstrates that the officers respond to specific complaints but can also be in any place at anytime and will take action on offenders.

Since the unit was formed a total of 86 Fixed Penalty Notices have been issued and four people have been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for failing to remove dog mess.

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Each project was very different with 15 Ayr Rd being mainly stone repairs and re-pointing and 1 The Square receiving a lead flat roof along with some timber and lime mortar repairs.

Both jobs were delayed . . . → Read More: CUMNOCK CARS UPDATE]]> Cumnock CARS has successfully completed its first two projects at 15 Ayr Rd and 1 The Square.

Each project was very different with 15 Ayr Rd being mainly stone repairs and re-pointing and 1 The Square receiving a lead flat roof along with some timber and lime mortar repairs.

Both jobs were delayed a little due to the continuing poor weather conditions but were completed to the great satisfaction of their owners.

Six staff members from Cumnock Community College have just completed a two day course at the Scottish Lime Centre Trust, funded by Cumnock CARS, where they learned about making and using lime in traditional construction. Billy Hutchison, Curriculum Leader for Brickwork said: “Staff were amazed to learn of the scale of the damage caused to natural stone structures by the use of cement mortars, and the knowledge gained will be passed onto current and future brickwork students. Staff learned how to create and use lime mortars and would like to thank the staff at the Lime Centre and the East Ayrshire Council CARS project for their help in making this course possible. It’s also hoped that making and using traditional mortars will be included in future courses such as Developing Construction Skills where learners get a chance to learn the basics of a number of construction trades.”

Places on this and similar courses are still available but are being filled quickly. A local Cumnock contractor has already booked for a course in March, funded by CARS. If anyone would like to find out more about the courses available, please contact the CARS Project Officer as below.

Offers of grant have been made to a further two projects in the town. One is at the Dumfries Arms Hotel which is undergoing a separate modern extension at the moment, and the second is a project to repair the historic stained glass windows in Old Cumnock Old Church, which will be starting early in spring.

Two further applications are about to be awarded an offer of grant and several other likely projects, including the Town Hall and properties in and around The Square, are being discussed with the CARS Project Officer at the moment.

Applications are invited from householders, owners and tenants to take advantage of Cumnock CARS. People interested in conservation or traditional materials who want to upskill or even householders who want to learn how to carry out their own maintenance can receive full funding to attend courses in traditional skills.

For further information or advice about an application, training or to simply obtain conservation advice, please contact the CARS Project Officer, John Durie, by e-mail at john.durie@east-ayrshire.gov.uk or by telephoning 01290 429350. John is based at Cumnock Town Centre Regeneration Office in Glaisnock Shopping Centre.

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As part of Cumnock 500, Mischief La-Bas, Scotland’s leading Street Theatre Company, will be bringing only good moods to the town on Saturday 2 October. From 12.30pm till 3.30pm, you are invited to take a stroll through the Market . . . → Read More: ROSE-TINTED SPECS ON FOR THE MARKET OF OPTIMISM!]]> Gloomy times will be forgotten when Cumnock holds its rose-tinted Market of Optimism this weekend.

As part of Cumnock 500, Mischief La-Bas, Scotland’s leading Street Theatre Company, will be bringing only good moods to the town on Saturday 2 October. From 12.30pm till 3.30pm, you are invited to take a stroll through the Market and enter a world of positivity. Cumnock’s free afternoon of fun will lift the spirits in the face of economic gloom!

Mischief La-Bas are bucking the trend and leading the way towards a bright and glorious future. They will be in the Square printing and freely distributing their own currency (Neuros) and bringing a full-sized Market of Optimism for customers to spend in, buying wonderful wares.

The Market offers a wide range of uplifting products – a magical makeover, a trip to the opticians for rose-tinted spectacles and a “grow your own luck” stall. There are magic lamps, heavenly estates and good vibrations, appealing to optimists of every age and disposition.

So pessimists and optimists alike are invited to come along and enjoy the interactive outdoor street theatre experience, featuring 16 market stalls, two “living cashpoints” and a variety of wandering characters.

Lighthearted and lively, the Market of Optimism will tickle the funny bones of all the family.

The Market of Optimism has previously visited Kirkcaldy, Perth, Dumfries, Aviemore and St Andrews – Cumnock will be your last chance to see it. So be there – in the Square!

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For further information, contact Elaine Scott on 01563 576013 or email elaine.scott@east-ayrshire.gov.uk

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “I have lost count of the number of times I have seen motorists casually throwing litter from their vehicles. The CEU now has an agreement with the . . . → Read More: DVLA TO ASSIST CORPORATE ENFORCEMENT UNIT]]> The Corporate Enforcement Unit is turning its attention to the thoughtless motorists who throw litter from their vehicles.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “I have lost count of the number of times I have seen motorists casually throwing litter from their vehicles. The CEU now has an agreement with the DVLA which will allow our officers to search vehicle number plates online and issue fixed penalty notices as appropriate. Our CEU is moving with the times and will continue to use any means available to them to tackle the scourge of littering on our communities.”

Littering from vehicles has a substantial financial impact on the Council. Larger roads like the A77 have to be closed to allow our employees to clear litter safely, which in addition to the financial cost causes disruption for our road users. During the last clear up of the A77, the Council uplifted some 1500 bags of litter at a cost of almost £15,000.

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Thanks to information from the public, a 30-year-old man has been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for illegally dumping vehicle tyres near Earlston just outside Kilmarnock. The CEU will also report the firm . . . → Read More: COUNCIL AND POLICE PUT THE NAIL INTO TYRE DUMPING BUSINESS]]> East Ayrshire Council’s Corporate Enforcement Unit (CEU) and Strathclyde Police have been working in partnership to combat illegal dumping (fly tipping).

Thanks to information from the public, a 30-year-old man has been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for illegally dumping vehicle tyres near Earlston just outside Kilmarnock. The CEU will also report the firm involved to SEPA and the home authority for further offences linked to waste licences and disposal.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “This case clearly demonstrates that people engaged in illegal dumping will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

“The public should also be aware that the Corporate Enforcement Unit is determined to detect and deter all environmental crimes in East Ayrshire and will continue to work closely with Strathclyde Police to ensure that offenders are caught and dealt with severely.”

Local community policing constable Jordan McManus added: “We will continue to work in close partnership with East Ayrshire Council to identify and prosecute offenders.

“If you see someone involved in illegal dumping, please contact your local police office, East Ayrshire Council or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Illegal dumping offences carry fines of up to £20,000.

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Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “This joint initiative allowed our officers to check the hygiene of mobile food . . . → Read More: MOBILE FOOD PREMISES INSPECTED]]> Local mobile food premises were recently targeted by officers from the Council’s Environmental Health Section and Strathclyde Police in a joint enforcement initiative and the results proved to be very positive!

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “This joint initiative allowed our officers to check the hygiene of mobile food premises, which included burger vans. Officers took note of all hygiene standards and further checks will take place in due course. The Council is committed to working in partnership with our Community Planning Partners within Strathclyde Police and by sharing expertise we can effectively focus on areas that will have the most positive impact for our communities. The recent visits with the Police were a great success and more initiatives are being planned for the coming year which will target the full range of commercial premises within East Ayrshire.”

PC Scott Brown, Violence Reduction Coordinator for Ayrshire Division said: “It is reassuring to see that there is a high degree of compliance throughout East Ayrshire. However, four persons were reported for falling foul of the legislation following the joint checks. We look forward to carrying out more joint agency visits in the near future.”

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The unit did not take this decision lightly. The large amounts of litter and abandoned cigarette ends are making the bus station . . . → Read More: ZERO TOLERANCE APPROACH TO LITTER]]> Littering has no place in Kilmarnock – that was the strong message from the Council’s Corporate Enforcement Unit when they recently declared Kilmarnock Bus Station as a zero tolerance zone for litter.

The unit did not take this decision lightly. The large amounts of litter and abandoned cigarette ends are making the bus station an unpleasant place to visit and the CEU has adopted this strong stance to address these problems.

Anyone witnessed deliberately throwing or leaving litter on the ground will be subject to an on the spot fine of £50. Thanks to regular patrols by the CEU six litter fines have now been issued and six Fixed Penalty Notices were also issued to people caught smoking within the bus station waiting area.

Councillor Jim Todd, Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety said: “The Corporate Enforcement Unit has increased their presence within Kilmarnock Bus Station and is sending a very clear message that littering, in any form, is not acceptable. Unfortunately there are a small number of people who thoughtlessly litter their town and make it an unpleasant place to visit. The on the spot fines will deter these people and greatly improve our town centre.”

The CEU has also signed up to Kilmarnock Town Centre’s anti-litter campaign – Bin It! – and will be patrolling the town centre with our Community Planning Partners within Strathclyde Police issuing Fixed Penalty Notices to anyone caught littering.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “At a national level it costs local authorities £100 million to clear litter off our streets – this is money that could be better spent elsewhere! The CEU is working very hard to help improve our towns but they need your help. Take pride in your towns – put litter in the bins and let’s make East Ayrshire a better place to work, live and play.”

Encouraging people to “Take Pride in Kilmarnock” the campaign uses a series of posters reminding people . . . → Read More: “BIN IT!” CAMPAIGN HITS KILMARNOCK]]> “Don’t drop it, Bin it!”  is set to become a familiar phrase on the streets of Kilmarnock as Town Centre Manager, Fiona Nicolson kick starts a campaign reminding people that dropping litter can result in a hefty fine.

Encouraging people to “Take Pride in Kilmarnock” the campaign uses a series of posters reminding people that food containers, cigarette butts and chewing gum also count as litter and offenders can expect fines of up to £50.00. These will be displayed throughout the town centre, in the bus station, railway station and on public transport.

East Ayrshire Council enforcement officers and police are imposing a strict “zero tolerance” regime, fining  anyone caught dropping litter of any description.

Launching the campaign, with the aid of a giant walking crisp bag and drink carton, Fiona said:” Kilmarnock town centre is entering a new phase, with new businesses such as Wilkinsons opening up and the regeneration fund breathing new life into our historic buildings. Traders and businesses are doing their best but it’s time we all took a pride in the town. Our street sweepers do a great job, but we need to remind the public that they have a responsibility to bin their waste. Everyone can play a part in making Kilmarnock a more attractive place to visit”

Spokesperson for delivering community regeneration Councillor Jim Buchanan said:  “Many people don’t think of cigarette butts or chewing gum as litter, but they cost East Ayrshire a great deal every year to clean up. By running this campaign we hope to educate people to be more considerate, helping us to make Kilmarnock town centre a lovely place to shop and work. “

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Fiona says: “I’m delighted that these businesses . . . → Read More: NEW BUSINESSES MOVE INTO BURNS MALL]]> Shopping in Kilmarnock is experiencing an upturn. Customers are enjoying more choice with the opening of New Look and Home Bargains in the Burns Mall, and Town Centre Manager Fiona Nicolson is looking forward to further success with the opening of Wallis and Evans franchises in BHS.

Fiona says: “I’m delighted that these businesses have chosen to locate branches in Kilmarnock. I’ve been working closely with Scott Darroch of Workman, the managing agents for the Burns Mall, to provide relevant information to potential retailers. Having new businesses come into town is key to the overall regeneration strategy and to support this, I recently wrote to many prominent high street retailers to raise awareness of Kilmarnock and to ensure these businesses are aware of the town’s potential.

“Workman, the management of Burns Mall, work tirelessly for Kilmarnock and it’s great to see their efforts pay off with the expansion of New Look and the opening of Home Bargains.”

From Workman, Associate Jim Hallan added: “Burns Mall is delighted to welcome two new tenants to the Centre, in New Look and Home Bargains. Despite a difficult retail climate, Burns Mall continues to offer Kilmarnock new and exciting retailers to strengthen the fantastic offering which already exists and has been serving the people of the town and beyond for some time. We hope this will be the first of a number of new retailers to come to the scheme.”

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Community Regeneration, said: “It’s encouraging to see new tenants moving in and bringing more choice to Kilmarnock’s retail scene. There are other very positive signs within the town centre as well, with Wallis and Evans having opened up outlets in BHS and the opening of the new Wilkinson’s store.

“With regeneration funding now having an effect on our historic buildings and our town centre manager building strong links with traders, there’s a renewed optimism in our main streets. We will continue to contact retailers and encourage them to locate in Kilmarnock and also work with the Retail Traders’ Association to promote existing businesses.”

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The final land acquisition has been completed clearing the way for a start to be made on a state of the art office building for occupation by East Ayrshire Council . . . → Read More: CUMNOCK READY TO ROLL REGENERATION]]> The centre of Cumnock in Ayrshire is all set for a major revamp with the first stage of regeneration works about to get underway.

The final land acquisition has been completed clearing the way for a start to be made on a state of the art office building for occupation by East Ayrshire Council and its partner agencies. The 35,000 sq ft building will provide new library facilities and a purpose built marriage suite amongst a range of other services.

East Ayrshire Council is working with its commercial partner Deanway Muir Ltd which is a dedicated joint venture company formed by Deanway Development Ltd and Muir Group. This company was appointed after a rigorous selection process conducted under EU Regulations.

Work will commence in late May on flood prevention works to eradicate a perceived 1:200 year flood risk to the centre of Cumnock and this will be followed by the main construction contract for the office building which is due to start on site by August. Completion of the offices is scheduled for August 2011.

Elsewhere in the town, work has commenced on the demolition of a former bingo hall to create an additional 100 space shopper’s car park, and public realm improvements will enhance the setting of the town hall.

The next phase of the regeneration programme will involve the demolition and redevelopment of the existing Glaisnock Shopping Centre which has reached the end of its useful working life. It is planned to replace this with a new supermarket of around 60,000 sq ft and new “street fronting” shop units totalling a further 45,000 sq ft. Work on this phase is targeted to begin in spring next year.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council, said: “The office development is a key part of the Council’s masterplan for Cumnock Town Centre. This development will bring our employees and partners into the town centre, increasing footfall in and business for local traders. The Local Office and Registration service, which is currently located at Millbank, will relocate and a purpose built marriage suite will be included in the development.

“As for the retail side of things, we intend to secure vacant possession of Glaisnock Shopping Centre and then demolish it.  We are continuing to work in partnership with leaseholders and owners within the mall to achieve this. The Council is working with all current occupiers to identify new permanent or temporary accommodation within the town centre. We have already met with traders to discuss the availability of various vacant properties within Cumnock and will be working to help them to relocate. Occupying the former Co-Op building in Hamilton Place is just one of options discussed. Keeping the businesses under one roof, in a department store style operation would enable them to share costs and provide an attractive, modern shopping environment.  We are awaiting a response from the traders following recent discussions.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Community Regeneration, added: “This is an exciting time for Cumnock and a real opportunity for existing and new businesses to take advantage of the growing confidence and optimism within the town.”

On the outskirts of Cumnock, planning consent was recently granted for a development at Knockroon comprising 770 houses, workplaces, leisure and open spaces. Knockroon is seen as an exemplar neighbourhood for Cumnock, East Ayrshire, and indeed for Scotland and has already been recognised as part of the Scottish Sustainable Communities Initiative. The development is being undertaken by The Prince’s Foundation for the Built Environment with construction due to start in the summer and is regarded as being a catalyst for the regeneration of the southern part of East Ayrshire.

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Under the terms of the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009, East Ayrshire Council has a duty to promote traffic regulation orders on every disabled parking bay in East Ayrshire. The traffic . . . → Read More: DISABLED PARKING BAYS TO BE ENFORCED]]> Inconsiderate drivers parking in disabled bays without a valid blue badge will soon face prosecution, thanks to new Scottish Government legislation.

Under the terms of the Disabled Persons’ Parking Places (Scotland) Act 2009, East Ayrshire Council has a duty to promote traffic regulation orders on every disabled parking bay in East Ayrshire. The traffic regulation order makes it an offence to park in a disabled bay without a blue badge and offenders will face a fixed penalty fine.

Councillor Bobby McDill, Spokesperson for Community Regeneration said: “This new act is good news for local disabled drivers who genuinely require access to these bays. The act will permit the Council to take action against thoughtless drivers who park in disabled bays.

“We are currently reviewing all disabled parking bays held on our register and we are contacting residents and businesses who have requested bays in the past to ensure that they are still required. We will also be checking that all bays are correctly marked, with appropriate signposting.

“We are relying on feedback to help us introduce legally enforceable disabled parking bay spaces across East Ayrshire. I would encourage residents and businesses to return their questionnaires in the freepost envelope as soon as possible to allow the Council to progress this very worthwhile project.”

If you require any further information please contact 01563 555755 or email disabledparking2009act@east-ayrshire.gov.uk.

Mr Mather facilitated the event, which was hosted by . . . → Read More: ENTERPRISE MINISTER HOLDS AYRSHIRE ECONOMIC WORKSHOP]]> Jim Mather MSP, Scottish Government Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism led a full day event yesterday, Monday 15 March 2010, involving representatives of the business community, community planning partnerships and other key organisations from across Ayrshire to consider opportunities for the regeneration of Ayrshire.

Mr Mather facilitated the event, which was hosted by East Ayrshire Council at the Grange Campus in Kilmarnock. The aim of the day was to develop a focused and coordinated approach to economic, social and environmental development in Ayrshire and a shared responsibility for the region’s future economic success.

In welcoming Mr Mather and the invited guests to the event, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: “As the economy of Ayrshire faces a series of particular challenges, this event is about clearly identifying these challenges, developing a shared vision of how to meet them and then through partnership working, taking action to achieve positive outcomes.”

Enterprise Minister Jim Mather said: “Over the last 2 years, we have found that bringing people together to develop a joint responsibility for the future is the most effective way to achieve the economic growth we all want to see for Ayrshire. And while job losses have had a clear and damaging impact on the region and its people, we must now generate a shared determination to exploit Ayrshire’s massive potential, its skilled workforce and its strong communities.

“It is clear that Ayrshire has many fine assets – its people, brand, heritage, skills and infrastructure to name but a few. These assets hold the key to supporting the region’s future economic, social and environmental development and it is vital that they are used to their best potential.
“I was greatly encouraged by the positive response to yesterday’s successful event and the constructive dialogue, sense of purpose and spirit of co-operation that resulted. We set out to identify how we accelerate progress by ensuring maximum alignment between Government, local authorities, other public bodies, businesses and the third sector, and I feel we achieved that objective.”

Key issues identified in the morning session of the event were further developed through group discussions during the afternoon, the output resulting from which will be developed and taken forward in discussion with three Ayrshire Council’s Chief Executives.

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Recycling rates in East Ayrshire are in the region of 43% which remains ahead of the Scottish Government’s target for 2010. This is great news for the area but as with all . . . → Read More: COUNCIL GETS GREENER!]]> East Ayrshire Council has received praise for its excellent recycling achievements from Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment.

Recycling rates in East Ayrshire are in the region of 43% which remains ahead of the Scottish Government’s target for 2010. This is great news for the area but as with all local authorities the Council faces a real challenge to meet the national target of 70% recycling by 2025.

Mr Lochhead, who wrote to Chief Executive Fiona Lees to congratulate the Council, said: “I note that you now project your recycling rates to be in the region of 43%. This is a fantastic achievement. Meeting future waste targets will be a challenge for all concerned, but given progress to date I am confident that East Ayrshire will continue to drive forward and meet these challenges head on.”

The Council is focusing upon achieving 50% recycling by 2013 and to this end is working closely with North and South Ayrshire Councils to assist with the development of a long term waste treatment facility. This facility will ensure that Ayrshire’s waste of the future is managed appropriately.

Councillor Bobby McDill, East Ayrshire Council Spokesperson for Environment and Regeneration said: “The Council is delighted to receive written support from the Cabinet Secretary and remains focused upon the continual improvement of our recycling service. New proposals have been brought forward for a pilot kerbside collection scheme which will allow organic kitchen waste to be collected on a weekly basis alongside mixed plastics.

“New initiatives will help to increase recycling rates, there is no doubt of that but we have to look to the future. It is going to be difficult to reach the 70% target but by working with colleagues in North and South Ayrshire Councils we can develop a facility which best addresses the needs of our communities of the future.

“I would like to thank all our residents for their sterling efforts to date and I am sure that we will continue to receive your support with the introduction of the new scheme.”

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Visitors, tourists and local people are being met with increasing amounts of litter left on the ground in and around the Bus Station despite the best . . . → Read More: THROWING IT ON THE GROUND WILL COST YOU FIFTY POUNDS!]]> East Ayrshire Council’s Corporate Enforcement Unit (CEU) is taking a zero tolerance approach to littering at Kilmarnock Bus Station with the introduction of a new partnership initiative.

Visitors, tourists and local people are being met with increasing amounts of litter left on the ground in and around the Bus Station despite the best endeavours of employees from Cleansing Services and Outdoor Amenities and the provision of numerous litter bins in the bus station. From Monday 15 March the CEU will introduce and enforce a zero tolerance litter initiative in the area with colleagues from various Council services, Strathclyde Police and Stagecoach.

The initiative will run indefinitely and will see anyone witnessed dropping litter picking up a £50 fixed penalty notice for the offence.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Environment and Regeneration said: “East Ayrshire Council is committed to making East Ayrshire a cleaner, safer more attractive place to live, work and visit and by addressing issues such as littering we will continue to take action on the few who will not put their litter in the bin.”

The offence of littering is punishable by a £50 FPN or report to the Procurator Fiscal. The offender has 14 days to pay the fine or face a report to the Procurator Fiscal for the original offence.

The definition of littering is anything thrown to the ground or discarded and left behind. This includes food wrappers and packaging, cigarette ends, fruit skins and cores.

In addition to this initiative officers will be taking the opportunity to highlight problems of smoking in the bus station area and will offer advice where appropriate. Further steps are currently being considered to address the specific problem of people smoking in the bus station which unfortunately due to its design and lay-out does not fall within the scope of the legislation which prohibits smoking in enclosed public spaces.

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Built between 1894-95, the Grade B Listed Building is the . . . → Read More: Further Progress in Kilmarnock Regeneration as Tannahill’s Refurbishment Unveiled]]> One of Kilmarnock’s longest established family businesses, George Tannahill and Sons Furniture Retailers, celebrated the makeover of its John Finnie Street premises with East Ayrshire Council and its partners in the Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (CARS) who visited the building to mark the occasion.

Built between 1894-95, the Grade B Listed Building is the first of many planned refurbishment projects within the John Finnie Street/Bank Street Conservation area. Its 3-storey, 4-bay Glasgow style design was built using local Ballochmyle sandstone and is still the finest example of a period shop front in the conservation area. Refurbishment works included the eradication of widespread dry rot, overhaul of the roof, masonry repairs, re-rendering of the southern gable wall and additional window repairs.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Douglas Reid said: “Tannahill’s has been part of the shopping heritage of Kilmarnock for many years, and the work done to this property will hopefully keep the business going from strength to strength. The work done through CARS will not only conserve the rich sandstone fabric of the buildings, but will keep family businesses such as this in the town, and will make it an attractive place to shop. I would like to thank all the people who put such effort into this project, and we are already seeing an increasing number of other businesses applying for assistance through CARS – this can only help Kilmarnock’s regeneration.”

The grant totalling £260,000 was provided through the CARS scheme with contributions coming from East Ayrshire Council and Historic Scotland, with the remaining funds coming from owner contributions.

Councillor Jim Buchanan, Spokesperson for Environment and Regeneration, paid homage to the building’s owner: “An ever-growing list of properties is, and has been, benefiting from CARS.  Our officers will ensure that this progress continues in order to aid Kilmarnock’s economic development. In this instance, none of this could have happened had Mr and Mrs Tannahill not contributed to the scheme. The building looks grand and the facelift really shows off its outstanding architectural features.”

William Tannahill, proprietor, said of the business: “I am full of praise for the Council’s efforts to turn Kilmarnock around. The availability of grant monies for building owners makes such a difference, enabling us to contribute to the regeneration of Kilmarnock. As a long established family business we are now safe in the knowledge that our building is structurally sound and is there for future generations.”

As one project is completed another is now coming onstream. Work commenced this week on the Atrium Homes premises at 39-41 John Finnie Street. This will involve the replacement of the existing modern shop front with a new shop front of traditional appearance and construction. Work at the site should be completed in spring this year. Built around 1870, the Grade B Listed Building constructed of Ballochmyle red sandstone is a 2-storey, 3-bay symmetrical property of Italian Gothic design. The grant of approximately £70,000 provided by CARS will make a positive impact on the appearance of John Finnie Street.

Stephen Black of Atrium Homes said of the scheme: “We were keen to play our part in assisting with the regeneration of Kilmarnock Town Centre. I am confident that once complete, our premises will help in the process of making John Finnie Street the proud historic street it once was.”

Atrium Homes Chairperson, Ken Stewart commented that: “Atrium Homes plays an important role in the community and its involvement in this project was a natural extension of this.”

Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of the Council said: “I am delighted that the CARS Team is making such good progress. We are very fortunate in Kilmarnock that we have such a fine example of a Victorian main street. The restoration of shop fronts on John Finnie Street enhances the environment making the most of a town centre with a truly authentic historic core. By bringing these buildings up to modern standards we are assuring their future for many years to come.”

Grants are available to owners of commercial and residential premises within the boundary of the John Finnie Street/Bank Street, Kilmarnock Outstanding Conservation Area.  The aim of the scheme is to promote, preserve and enhance the traditional character and appearance of the properties in the area. The scheme is funded by Historic Scotland, the Community Planning Partnership, Scottish Enterprise and East Ayrshire Council. For more information, contact the CARS project officer John O’Neil on 01563 576771.

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