A PLANNING application has been submitted to North Ayrshire Council which would see the creation of a café next to the Barony centre in Ardrossan.

The site would be between the centre and the Barony church and see the existing external storage area demolished for the café to be built in its footprint - as it is believed it has outlived its purpose.

The café is designed to aid those who attend the Scottish Centre for Personal Safety, who operate in the Barony centre.

The application states its aims are: “Providing a secure space for conversation, and personal interaction between the clients and the instructors.

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“The café is small and intimate, allowing clients to mix with the public, without fear of repercussions or reprisals, whilst under the supervision of trainers and instructors.”

Operating hours would be between 10am and 5pm but may also be used outwith these times by centre staff.

It would also look to provide a food and drink service to any visitors looking to relax after visiting Ardrossan beach.

No additional parking facilities are planned for the café.