Glasgow firm to lead restoration of historic bandstand

Last month, Carrick Futures awarded over £187,000 to ACE to benefit the project and its other youth development activities.

The award will contribute to the second phase of refurbishing the historic Girvan Bandstand, which has stood derelict on the town's seafront for over 20 years.

The funding will support the internal fit-out of the building and a development officer role for a three-year period, helping transition the landmark into a thriving social enterprise café and events venue.

Carrick Futures has awarded the money to Adventure Centre for Education (Image: Newsquest)

The restored bandstand will serve as a focal point for Girvan, offering high-quality refreshments and a diverse programme of community events in its unique heritage setting.

The project is expected to create local employment opportunities, stimulate tourism, and contribute to the regeneration of Girvan town centre.

The award, one of the most significant commitments made by the Carrick Futures fund to date, will contribute to supporting ACE to secure the £1.24 million needed for the project.

It has now been revealed that O’Donnell Brown will lead the restoration, alongside other work on the town's McKechnie Institute and Stumpy Tower.

A statement by the company said: “In Spring 2023, ACE formally bid to buy the bandstand from South Ayrshire Council, bringing the building into community ownership.

“We are looking forward to working with ACE to realise their ambitious plans to fully refurbish the Bandstand as a cultural space that champions local produce and benefits the community as widely as possible.

“Alongside the Bandstand, we are also progressing proposals for the McKechnie Institute and Stumpy Tower which will move to RIBA Stage 4 (the technical design stage) in early 2026.”