The iconic Barony A Frame could be lit up at night.

A councillor has called for the miner’s monument to glow violet in the darkness – meaning it could be seen for miles around.

East Ayrshire Council has added the proposal as a reserve possibility to a list of planned projects in the coalfield communities. 

Speaking at a recent East Ayrshire Council cabinet meeting, Councillor Neil McGhee, Labour, said he would like to see the structure illuminated. 

The  Ballochmyle politician said: “We are very hopeful about this happening.

“The monument is a testament to the mining industry. Lighting it up and making it prominent would be very exciting.” 

Previous attempts to shine a spotlight on the landmark did not last.

Council leader Douglas Reid, SNP, said he would support the latest quest at a recent council meeting. 

There are also aspirations to install security cameras on the Barony A Frame site.

The monument, which faced demolition was restored, and reopened by Prince Charles in 2008.

Councillor McGhee said: “Our history is coal. But the coal dust is disappearing. There are kids who don’t know what a piece of coal looks like.”

An illuminated Barony A Frame is part of a £113,000 coalfield industrial heritage hub plan. Moves would include restoring the High House pit site with a part-time tour guide.

The aim would be to encourage visitors to Auchinleck and the A Frame to stay in the area for longer. 

The council is on a mission to pour about £6.6 million into projects in the historic mining areas in East Ayrshire.

The A Frame proposal is a small part of the huge bid.

The ambitious plans are part of an application to obtain cash from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for a Coalfield Communities Landscape Partnership.

The council will contribute money alongside the National Lottery.

Bosses will submit a bid later this month.

No final decision has been taken yet but if approved work would start  in April or May next year.