South Ayrshire Council is set to undertake improvement works at the Riverside High Flats in Ayr following recommendations in light of the Grenfell Tower disaster.

Councillors made the decision in recognition of a recent survey which highlighted that the flats are mainly populated by elderly residents and those with mobility issues.

Design work will now progress with a view to carrying out a number of improvements, which include:

Residents are already aware of the improvements as the survey took into account their opinions and those of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and other experts.

Councillor Phillip Saxton, housing and customer services portfolio holder, said: “Since June 2017 there have been two fires at the flats and although the sprinkler systems contained and extinguished the flames on both occasions, an independent safety review was carried out to find out if improvements could be made.

“I know the residents are reassured by the steps we are taking following the Grenfell disaster and we are also reminding them of their own responsibilities to ensure the safety of themselves and their neighbours.

“We will now progress the design and implementation of these works in partnership with our tenants to minimise disruption.”