Troon Councillor Nan MacFarlane says that plans to extend quarrying in Dundonald could impact the smugglers route.

She expressed her concerns regarding the Hillhouse Quarry application in Dundonald. 

The councillor spoke to the Ayr Advertiser Series expressing her concerns at the Hillhouse Quarry group's application to extend tunnelling under the smugglers walking route which would include excavating the hill that is on the smugglers route.

Nan said: "I have concerns as a walker and a councillor for the area I believe there has to be a limit for the Hillhouse Quarry group. 

"It is not that I do not agree with their application, I just feel they are eating into the beautiful countryside of Dundonald. The woods and trees are part of the beauty of Dundonald Castle. 

"My concern will be in 20 years time, will they have dug into the castle and other beautiful areas? 

"The quarry has been there for years and if you look at it from above it is just a crater. I just feel where does it end with the tunnelling and digging?" 

Hillhouse Quarry Group were asked for comment by the Ayr Advertiser Series but decided to decline on the matter.