KLIN Group Opera House project reaches finals of Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning
18 June 2013
A key restoration project of Kilmarnock’s Opera House, carried out by The KLIN Group in partnership with East Ayrshire Council, has reached the finals of the Scottish Government’s ‘Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning 2013’.
The project involved the restoration of the existing historic building façade and the redevelopment of the site, which is on John Finnie Street in Kilmarnock. The former building was subject to a devastating fire in 1989 and was regarded as causing economic blight and being a barrier to regeneration
Working with East Ayrshire Council and a number of other partners, The KLIN Group has successfully redeveloped the site. They repaired and conserved the B listed façade and the Opera House is now providing high quality, modern accommodation for over 250 Council staff. The redevelopment is considered a significant boost to the regeneration of Kilmarnock Town Centre and has resulted in increased footfall, which has helped stimulate the local retail trade.
Other key partners involved with the Opera House project include Historic Scotland & Heritage Lottery Fund; Robert Potter & Partners; Smith Design Associates; Petrie Robertson Design; and CBC Stone.
The awards are one of the Scottish Government’s most prestigious events which celebrate achievements in planning, from strategic visions to development on the ground. Site inspections and interviews with short listed applicants will take place over the summer, with the winners being announced at a ceremony in November 2013.
Marie Macklin, Chairwoman of The KLIN Group, said: “We’re delighted to have been shortlisted in these prestigious awards and very much look forward to meeting the judging team and showing them the site of The Opera House. This project is one that is very close to my heart. We worked with some excellent partners on the regeneration and I believe it has truly made a difference to Kilmarnock Town Centre. I’m thrilled that we’ve reached this stage and we have high hopes for the final.”
Councillor Jim Buchanan, East Ayrshire Council spokesperson for Delivering Community Regeneration said: “Regeneration is all about bringing new life to old buildings, giving them vitality, creating vibrancy and opportunities for employment and town centre living. The Opera House is a prime example of what we are achieving in Kilmarnock, giving our staff a good working environment, improving workplace communications and rationalising costs. After lying derelict for over 20 years I am especially pleased with the way that this project has improved the visual impact of John Finnie Street, bringing new life and trade to our town centre businesses.”
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