Thu 15th November 2007

Barony Exhibition Centre - Proposal Update

The Barony Restoration is intended to develop an existing community owned asset.

It is anticipated that the creation of a Centre of Excellence showcasing contemporary crafts will significantly enhance the current level of activity, creating a facility that will attract the critical mass of visitors required to maintain Craft Town Scotland as a financially sustainable social enterprise. It is believed that the development will increase income generation within 5 years, with a resultant reduction in the need for long-term grant aid.

The old Barony Church is a "C" listed building that requires remedial repairs in the near future. An integral part of both the visual townscape and the sense of community identity, there is a strong desire that it be brought back into use. Significant adaptations will be required to enable the building to provide the level of service envisaged. Whilst remaining sympathetic to the original external building, the redevelopment will result in a flexible, dynamic space for the future.

The building"s primary focus will be the provision of exhibition spaces, retail outlet and café on ground level, with the extension of an existing balcony creating an additional level, which will house workshop spaces and a small stage and auditorium area.

In addition to providing a unique venue and service for the local community, it will also support the wider craft community and the future development of North Ayrshire’s range of cultural attractions that exist within close proximity to West Kilbride.

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