THE refurbished Millport Town Hall is set to reopen following a ‘transformative renovation’ of the historic building.
The grand opening ceremony marks the culmination of a community-led regeneration and conservation project that began when the building was forced to close due to disrepair back in 2016.
The building was listed on the Buildings at Risk Register (BARR) for Scotland in 2014, with a subsequent report in 2019 raising its risk level to moderate. Later that year, the building was acquired by the charitable trust through community asset transfer.
The restoration project was brought to fruition through the efforts of the local community, a design team led by O’DonnellBrown Architects, and Irvine-based main contractor McLaughlin Construction.
The project delivered the conservation, renovation, extension, and reconfiguration of the late 19th century building – enabling the return of the building to community use and providing a multi-purpose venue and community asset at the heart of the island community on Great Cumbrae.
The refurbished building features a new spacious and accessible reception; restored Victorian domed main hall with enhanced acoustics, stage lighting, and accessibility features; a welcoming sitting room and snug; Men’s Shed; a fully-equipped community kitchen; a basement heritage centre; and three holiday flats.
Angie McCallum, chair of the trustees at Millport Town Hall Charity, said, “This is more than a restoration – it’s a legacy. The hall now stands as a beacon of community spirit, sustainability, and cultural heritage. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed—financially, creatively, and with their time.”
