Concerns were raised about losing the heritage of Fairlie beach if a new seafront path gets the go-ahead.

A pre-consultation on plans presented to the community ended last Friday, but during the Fairlie Action Meeting at the Village Hall last Tuesday, the issue was given another airing.

Ailsa Henderson was concerned about its potential impact, and said that she thought it would be worth contacting Scottish Natural Heritage for their views on the proposal. “I am a bed and breakfast owner, and as such, my business would probably benefit from having a seafront path for cyclists. I have already had a few cyclists staying, but I am very concerned about the impact of the concrete on these old rocks, and losing the heritiage of the beach. It is lovely along there.” Some residents said that there were a number of unanswered questions concerning the seafront path, including the exact height. However, community councillor John Riddell stated that the height of the path was in accordance with AOD (above ordnance datum), meaning that the path would be above specific tide levels.

However, Mrs Henderson pointed out during the winter period that there were many times when the path would be out of bounds.

Cyclist Calum Corral said he believed it was important to have a multi-users path along the seafront for wheelchair users, prams and cyclists, and would be a major asset for the local area. He added: “Why should I have to cycle along that Main Road? We have just had three meetings in a row about road safety on the A78 - and now we are being presented with an excellent opportunity to take bikes off the main road, and pedestrians. Cyclists need to show tolerance when pedestrians are around, and if need be, get off their bike. I am disappointed that we are not hearing the voice of cyclists in this forum.” However, resident Ann Brooks stated that the cycle path was in the wrong place, and suggested it should go around the back of the village behind Castlepark. Community councillor Rita Holmes said that she had been unable to get a direct answer on her concerns about railing positions, but it was pointed out by Ron Cooper of Sustrans, that the person who could answer this specific question, was on holiday.

Mr Riddell urged the meeting to give their views to the consultation, and as a result, the plans would be modified to suit the concerns raised in the pre-consultation.