Go-ahead for £14m regeneration in Kilmarnock
THE transformation of Kilmarnock town centre has moved a step forward following the approval of a £14m project to develop upmarket flats.
Around 200 construction jobs will also be created in the building of 91 flats on the derelict site of the former Kilmarnock Royal Infirmary.
Work on the development in Hill Street, by the Klin Group,
will begin early next year.
The move is seen as a significant step in the regeneration of the town.
Approval for the project was unanimously granted by the local planning committee of East Ayrshire Council.
Marie Macklin, Chairwoman of Klin, said she was delighted her plans had been given the go-ahead.
She said: "This is another significant step in bringing Kilmarnock town centre firmly into the 21st century. We are a local company and proud of it.
"We are committed to providing quality housing and amenities within the area and are passionate about the regeneration of the town."
Approval was granted after Klin submitted a revised plan following the rejection of similar proposals around 18 months ago.
Mrs Macklin added: "We were happy to make changes to our original plans after consultation with the relevant bodies."
The phased project comprises one, two and three bed roomed homes and is scheduled for completion at the beginning of 2007.
Other plans to regenerate the town include the development of a tourist centre, heritage centres, and an hotel and retail forum.