The works, funded by South Ayrshire Council, include cleaning, resurfacing and relining the entire running track including the small verges, end steeplechase area, quadrant fan, two javelin runs and long jump run.

Councillor Bill McIntosh, leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: "The eight lane track at Dam Park Stadium needs to be upgraded to ensure that it is fit for purpose now and in the future.

"In the current economic climate we have to think very carefully before we commit to spending money on facilities. However, in this instance we knew that we had to upgrade the facility to give athletes support by providing an appropriate place for them to train and compete."

The stadium will close on 10 September for approximately three weeks while the improvement works can be carried out.