CONCERNS have been raised about the future of Belleisle Conservatory after vandals smashed it causing excessive damage. 

One suggestion has been to introduce a barrier at the bottom of a driveway to make the estate more secure and monitor those who are entering the area.

It was previously suggested that controlled entry like this, to monitor vehicles, could be installed and locked by a golf course greenkeeper or golf club manager at night. 

 With work resuming on Belleisle Hotel in August this year, it is hoped that a watchman will be able to observe and prevent vandals striking.

The issue was discussed at an Alloway and Doonfoot community council meeting. Members asked police what they could do to address the issue as there has also been reports of motorists speeding around the car park.

But noone has officially caught the alleged culprits. A member of the public addressed the councillors with her concerns. 

She said: "I do not know how police have not been able to catch the people responsible for making the noise."

Chairwoman Marilyn Dalgleish said: "Once construction workers are on site they should be able to stop people from going in.

"There should be a watchman on the estate at night while the work is being carried out and we are led to believe that should be from the start of August.

"Folk have been going in and smashing windows. South Ayrshire Council said nothing would happen [to the conservatory] and now it has.

"The night watchman may stop this for a bit. I do feel that someone should be there watching full time."

Those who attended the meeting agreed it was vital that something is done to prevent future outbreaks of vandalism to any part of the park.

There are also concerns that there is no local police contact in Ayr and all 101 calls are directed through an operator. 

It was suggested that a barrier to monitor vehicles could be installed and locked by a golf course greenkeeper or golf club manager at night.