GALSTON Town Hall has been officially reopened, following a £4 million restoration project led by Clark Contracts on behalf of East Ayrshire Council.
The refurbishment first got underway in January 2024, with works completing in March 2026. Local firm, Character Joinery, was commissioned to restore the original chamber desk – with it not sitting at the heart of the building’s new library facility.
The new facility offers a new location for the public library, which has relocated from Henrietta Street, and a skills and learning hub to help local people gain the skills required to progress into work and learning.
The main chamber on the first floor which features wooden panelling, a large fireplace and decorative ceiling has been preserved and will be available for community use as a flexible space for meetings and small events and exhibitions, alongside a new square for outdoor events.
Councillor Douglas Reid, leader of East Ayrshire Council, officially opened the new facility. He said, “This is a huge honour to officially open this new facility today. This is a celebration of renewal, investment, and community pride and it’s wonderful to see so many generations of the Galston community gathered under one roof.
“The town hall has long been the beating heart of this town, serving as the Council’s local office for many years. The building is steeped in rich local heritage, and it has been beautifully preserved, to create a modern, accessible, and vibrant hub for the local community once again.
“Throughout this magnificent facility, our local heritage is proudly displayed – honouring the incredible history and pioneering spirit of the people who shaped this valley – figures like Lady Flora Hastings, our famous poet Janet Little, and the Reverend Robert Stirling.
“What makes this project truly special is how the building has been reimagined to serve the everyday needs of local people; the new library provides a new a fantastic new home for readers of all ages; the skills and learning hub offers a dedicated space to help our young people and adults achieve their full potential; the our beautifully restored first-floor chamber is now an adaptable venue for local meetings, groups and exhibitions; and of course, the new outdoor area -specifically designed for community events, a perfect location for outdoor gatherings and celebrations – just like today’s family fun day.
“This is a space for the people of Galston – a space for your celebrations, your groups, your voices, and your shared memories – and I hope it is enjoyed by future generations in this town for years to come.”
