Overview
A number of residents (54) from the South Ayrshire Council (the Council) area raised complaints about the Council's decision to close various facilities (Girvan Swimming Pool, Tarbolton and Dailly Activity Centres, Dalmilling Golf Course, The Gaiety Theatre, Pets' Corner, Public Toilets and Maybole and Troon Registration Offices) without consultation with the public.
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the Council failed to consult the public, both before and after a decision was taken to close a public facility or centre, in accordance with the Council's practice and statutory procedures (not upheld).
Redress and recommendation
The Ombudsman recommends that, in the interests of good practice, the Council ensure that their strategy to communicate and engage with the community incorporates clear directives in relation to consistency in communication and engagement where it is proposed to close a Council facility or centre.
The Council have accepted the recommendation and will act on it accordingly.