The demolition of Auchinleck Academy looks set to be delayed until next year.

Built in the early 1970s, the main Auchinleck school building has lain empty since pupils moved to the new school in October 2020.

As part of a decision in October 2023 to close leisure facilities at the school, it was also decided that the Auchinleck Academy building would be demolished - with a forecast date of April 2024 for work to get under way.

READ MORE: Council to move Auchinleck pitches despite concerns over Merlin Park

This week it was decided that Auchinleck's swimming pool and games hall should be closed with immediate effect over health and safety concerns.

The synthetic pitches at the Academy site, and associated changing facilities, will be retained until similar facilities are installed at nearby Merlin Park - a project which is expected to cost £1.4 million.

East Ayrshire Council's cabinet approved the closure of the pool and games hall at a meeting on February 14 - and to "proceed to full demolition of Auchinleck Campus on completion of Merlin Park."

READ MORE: Auchinleck Leisure Centre pool and games hall shut for good

During the meeting, an initial timeframe of around 12 months for the completion of the move to Merlin Park was set out.

However, this is not set in stone, with ground sampling work required before Merlin Park's suitability can be confirmed.

Implementation officer Blair Millar said: "The timescale subject to a number of conditions, notwithstanding planning et cetera.

"We would be anticipating about 12 months, but that would be variable, subject to all of the statutory consents we would be required to receive in order to deliver that change."