Following extensive preparatory work, a definitive start date has been set for the significant redevelopment of the Palace Theatre and Grand Hall in Kilmarnock.

The "Cultural Kilmarnock" project, backed by £20 million from the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund and additional funding from East Ayrshire Council, is set to transform the existing facilities into a state-of-the-art regional concert hall and theatre.

This week marked a crucial milestone with the signing of contracts for the project. Onsite mobilisation will commence during July 2025, with the main contract work officially beginning on Monday, 4 August 2025. The ambitious regeneration is scheduled for completion in early 2028.

McLaughlin & Harvey has been appointed as the main contractor for the refurbishment works. They are supported by an external multi-disciplinary team led by Atkins Realis, with the wider project team including Keppie Design, RSP, Struers, Wardall Armstrong, Atelier Ten, and Theatre Plan.


The scope of works for the Palace Theatre and Grand Hall is comprehensive. It includes the construction of a new extension at the front of the existing Palace Theatre, which will incorporate a new café and bar, a reception area, and a ticket office. This extension will also provide improved level access to both venues. Internally and externally, both the Palace Theatre and the Grand Hall will undergo extensive refurbishment. This encompasses improvements to back-of-house facilities and the stage areas, enhancements to public spaces, and crucial energy-efficient upgrades to existing heating and electrical systems.

Welcoming the news Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: "Today's announcement of the start date is music to my ears, and I'm sure the people of Kilmarnock share my excitement to learn that works can now officially commence. It's full steam ahead for a project which will not only transform the town of Kilmarnock, but which will boost our cultural offerings and bring significant economic, social and environmental benefits to all of East Ayrshire."

Councillor Reid acknowledged the complexity of the undertaking, adding: "Technically, this is a very complex project and the team has taken time to ensure every detail has been considered to mitigate and address these challenges. This is a key milestone which marks the culmination of months of planning and coordination and shared ambition between all partners and I very much look forward to seeing this progress."