NEWS UPDATE - 19/06/2020
As you will be aware, the First Minister announced yesterday that we have now moved into phase 2 of the 4 phase routemap that was set out to take us safely out of lockdown which I am sure is something we can all agree is welcoming. There is no doubt lockdown has been testing and challenging for us all, with many hurdles still to face but it is great to see things moving in the right direction. Please see link below for fully comprehensive details on exactly what phase 2 is.
It has been heartening to see the majority of people in South Ayrshire taking it seriously and doing their bit to combat this virus.
Whilst there have been some expectations that some businesses could reopen its imperative that we follow the Scottish Government guidelines which is working towards lifting as many restrictions as possible and when it is safe to do so.
From a council point of view, we, the SNP group, continue with regular meetings to ensure we are meeting the challenge of providing services during this pandemic. You will of no doubt seen in the local press that Councillor Douglas Campbell has intimated his intention to stand down as leader of the Council. The group has voted to replace their leader as Councillor Peter Henderson and other changes as a result of this new leadership will be ratified at a future date when council reconvenes.
FOR INFORMATION
Recycling centres - The temporary pop-up recycling centres which were introduced to deal with the demand after the initial closure have now closed as of Sunday 14th June. I am pleased to say from Monday 15th June, our Household Waste Recycling Centres operating hours have returned to normal.
South Ayrshire Council School Update – We have been working hard over the last few weeks to prepare for the safe return of young people when the new school term begins on 11 August. Safety is our priority and our plans have been developed in line with government guidance. We have also considered transport limitations and the views of parents – 7,412 parents completed our education recovery survey and we used their feedback to help us in our planning. This has been an extraordinarily complex exercise and schools have done everything they can to maximise the time young people can spend in school. Every school is unique – in space available, layout and in pupil and teacher number which means we cannot have a one fits all approach. Schools will contact parents directly over the next few days/weeks with information on their child or children’s pattern of attendance. Details of this will also be published on the council website. https://www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/news/
Please be assured the council is doing everything possible to give pupils the best learning experience possible. As always, I welcome any feedback from parents with any concerns.
New Helpline launched for Ayrshire business support - A new business support helpline has been launched by the three Ayrshire councils to help local businesses navigate the extensive support strands and funding opportunities available to them. In the wake of covid-19, the local economic landscape has changed significantly with many more businesses in need of support and assistance as they try to ride the storm. From Wednesday 17 June 2020 any Ayrshire business seeking assistance can do so by dialling – 0330 6781611. Again, should you have any issues, please do not hesitate to contact me.
WARD UPDATE
You may have seen recently that Ayrshire Police Division have received increased reports of anti-social behaviour by young people gathering in public areas. Unfortunately, several areas of Ayr East have been a hot spot. The police have stated their will be an increase in patrols in key locations in South Ayrshire over the coming weekends to address this and encourage compliance with Scottish Government’s guidelines. I will continue to work closely with the police and make them aware of any issues reported directly to myself. I also encourage anyone with Ayr East ward who see any anti-social behaviour taking place to call 111 and make a log of the incident so this can build a pattern to combat with moving forward. For more information on Locality Policing within the ward check out
Street lights out - I have been notified of several street lights out. Below is a list of the following I have reported.
Burnbank Road from Burnbank Place
Kincaidston Drive (last exiting)
Heather Park (last exiting)
Dalmellington Road (Birch Road junction)
Larchwood Road (at hawthorn)
Cedar Road (at Spruce Park)
Old Hillfoot (1st at entry)
Leslie Crescent
Lochlea Drive
If there are any additional please inform me and I will add to the list.
Pot Holes - Pot holes remain an issue within the ward. Due to Covid-19 this is something that hasn’t been a priority however it is still important to report any large potholes that many cause damages to vehicles within the ward. I am aware of the road conditions and have reported these to Ayrshire Roads Alliance along with a compiled list of faults with various drains, road markings and traffic lights.
As ever I am keen to hear constituents’ views and thoughts on how we can improve the ward or what you would like to see within the council.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me at chris.cullen@south-ayrshire.gov.uk with any constituent enquires.
Stay Safe
Councillor Chris Cullen