Kilmarnock is on the verge of its biggest town centre rethink in decades. East Ayrshire Council has just agreed a new Masterplan for the town, its first major reimagining of the town centre since planner Percy Johnson-Marshall drew up the last one back in the 1960s. Full Council signed off on the plans this week, marking the start of a process that could reshape how — and where — people live, work and spend time in the town centre for a generation.
Why now?
The way people use town centres has changed enormously since the 1960s. Shopping habits have shifted online, working patterns are more flexible than ever, and many town centres across the UK are having to rethink their purpose beyond retail. Kilmarnock is no exception, and the council has spent time working with community groups, local businesses and residents to figure out what the town centre should look like next.
The result is a document called "The Vision for Kilmarnock Town Centre – A New Chapter," which sets out six themes for the town's future:
- Sense of place
- Climate
- Connectivity
- Vacant buildings, retail and business development
- Heritage, leisure and public realm
- Town centre living
Together, these themes are meant to guide both short-term projects and longer-term change, with the aim of improving the town centre for everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Kilmarnock.
A significant financial commitment
Council leader Douglas Reid has described the Masterplan as one of the most significant papers to come before East Ayrshire Council in its history. The council has earmarked in the region of £100 million to support the plan over its lifetime, though it has been equally clear that private investment will be essential to bring the full vision to life. Reid has said he hopes the shared vision for Kilmarnock's future will attract developers keen to get involved.
He's also stressed the importance of listening to the people the changes will affect most, noting that the council's most successful developments have always come from working closely with local communities, businesses and organisations.
Have your say
The council is encouraging anyone with an interest in Kilmarnock's future to get involved. Consultation on the Masterplan opens on Monday 31 August and runs until Sunday 11 October, with feedback available online plus in-person drop-in sessions being held at venues across the town, giving people the chance to ask questions and contribute face-to-face.
Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or simply someone who cares about the future of the town, it's a genuine chance to help shape how Kilmarnock develops over the years ahead.
This article is based on original reporting by Scottish Housing News: Town centre living given prominent role in Kilmarnock masterplan. Visit their site for the full story and further East Ayrshire Council coverage.
