Work will start on the project later this year as part of a wider plan to revitalise the town centre, replacing services currently provided by the existing Citadel Leisure Centre located at Ayr Harbour.

The new facility is to be located on the site of the existing Arran Mall and the former Hourstons department store.

Dating from 1896, the historic elements of this building are to be retained and incorporated into the emerging designs.

Michael McBrearty, chief executive of hub South West, said: “hub South West procured a design team, led by renowned architect Mike Lawless of LA Architects on behalf of South Ayrshire Council to deliver a Strategic Support Services Report, a feasibility study which outlines design proposals.

“As a result, hub South West, BAM and its design team have been appointed by South Ayrshire Council to develop the proposals and deliver this innovative new leisure centre for the people of Ayr.

“We have now started the process of public consultation for the project and look forward to hearing a wide-range of views on the design and opinions on what this facility could do for the local community.

“This is hub South West’s second project with BAM following its appointment to the hub South West supply chain in Spring 2020.”

Jim Ward, Regional Director of BAM, said: “We are currently engaging with all parties about the design of the new facilities before we can move onto the construction phase towards the end of the year.”