£5.8m Investment Plan Aims to Upgrade South Ayrshire’s Roads and Infrastructure

A major investment package worth nearly £5.8 million has been proposed to improve roads and transport infrastructure across South Ayrshire.

Councillors are due to review the plan at a cabinet meeting on 28 April, where they will consider a wide-ranging programme of works scheduled for 2026/27. If approved, the funding will be allocated across key areas including road surfaces, pavements, street lighting, bridges, coastal protection and wider transport networks.

Developed by the Ayrshire Roads Alliance (ARA), the proposal outlines a detailed schedule of upgrades set to take place throughout 2026 and into early 2027. Planned works include resurfacing and reconstructing roads, modernising street lighting with energy-efficient LED technology, renewing traffic signals and carrying out structural improvements to bridges and harbours.

Among the specific projects identified are £70,000 for new LED lighting installations and a further £168,750 to replace underground cabling. An additional £70,000 has been earmarked for traffic signal upgrades, marking the first phase of a longer-term programme expected to run over the next decade.

The plan also includes £2.65 million dedicated to resurfacing carriageways, alongside funding for coastal resilience measures and a structural assessment of Ayr South Pier.

In addition to council investment, the programme highlights potential external funding opportunities for initiatives such as active travel, road safety improvements and bus infrastructure, with bids submitted to Transport Scotland and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport.

Kevin Braidwood, Depute Chief Executive, said the proposed investment reflects an ongoing commitment to maintaining safe, reliable and high-quality infrastructure. He added that the programme will not only improve everyday journeys but also support sustainable travel and long-term economic development in the region.

If given the green light, preparatory work will begin ahead of delivery, with progress monitored throughout the year and reported to the Ayrshire Shared Services Joint Committee.