THE historic Maybole Town Hall has reopened following an ‘extensive’ restoration project.
The building, parts of which are believed to date back to the 1500s, has been transformed thanks to funding of £1.165 million.
South Ayrshire Council funded the project along with contributions from Scottish Government, Historic Environment Scotland, and Heritage Lottery.
One of the key aims was to repair the iconic tower and restore the balcony, which has been graced by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as well as former US president Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Accessible amenities have been added to both the ground floor and the first floor, while a new layout has seen the kitchen and bar move to the main hall.
An audiovisual system has been added along with stage lighting to ensure the hall can be used for a range of events including weddings, concerts, plays, and movie screenings.
Scottish Government minister for local government empowerment and planning, Joe FitzPatrick, said, “It is great to see this historic and prominent community venue re-opening following nearly £800,000 of investment by the Scottish Government through our Regeneration Capital Grant Fund. The town hall’s transformation will benefit people for generations to come and – as part of wider regeneration work in Maybole – bring new vitality to the high street for the community and visitors.
“Scotland’s town centres make a huge contribution to the economic and social success of our communities, which is why the Scottish Government is absolutely committed to supporting projects that build enterprising communities that are good for Scotland’s economic, environmental and social wellbeing.”
Councillor Bob Pollock, economic development portfolio holder for South Ayrshire Council, added, “The town hall has been transformed and I am delighted with the results. The main hall is now a modern, welcoming venue which can be enjoyed by locals and visitors for many years to come. This regeneration project is an example of partnership working at its best with the project team working closely with the funders and the local community to breathe new life into this key historic building, creating a vibrant and thriving asset for the community.”
Mark Fletcher, chair of the project board, commented, “To now see priority projects like the town hall come back into use and given a new lease of life, fills the community with hope for new beginnings while maintaining the historic values of the built environment. Many memories have been shared and created in the town hall and now many more families and groups can continue to make more great memories.”
