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01/04/2026

Restored Galston Town Hall Reopens As Library And Skills Hub

The new Galston Town Hall will open to the public on Wednesday 8 April 2026. It will house the town's public library and a Skills and Learning hub, strengthening the Council's commitment to helping local people gain the skills to learn and work.

Refurbishment began in January 2024 with Clark Contracts appointed as the main contractor. Construction works finished on 10 March 2026, after which East Ayrshire Council and East Ayrshire Leisure Trust completed final preparations ahead of opening.

Managed by East Ayrshire Leisure Trust, the library has moved from its former base on Henrietta Street and now occupies much of the ground floor. It sits alongside a Skills and Learning hub offering employability support, and a flexible area designed for wider community use.

Modelled on the SL33 approach in Kilmarnock, the Skills and Learning hub provides a one‑stop‑shop to streamline communication and referrals and reduce duplication of services. Provision includes bespoke support for young people from six months before their statutory school leaving dates; targeted employability help for care‑experienced clients; a sector skills programme for clients of all ages with disabilities; and a range of parental employability programmes.

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The building at 11 Cross Street, in the heart of the Galston Conservation Area, dates from 1925. Its restoration has been carried out sensitively, preserving its baronial character and red sandstone features, including the balcony, turret and decorative stone carvings.

A wood‑panelled main chamber on the first floor, complete with a large fireplace and decorative ceiling, has been retained and will be available for community use as a flexible venue for meetings, small events and exhibitions.

Accessibility has been a key focus throughout. A new lift now links all floors, while ramps and stairs connect the public space to the Church Lane car park, creating a new route and making it easier to move around the town.

Local heritage is showcased across the building, with nods to Lady Flora Hastings, Janet Little – 'the Scotch Milkmaid' and Alison Begbie – 'Peggy Alison'. The Rev. Robert Stirling and the Stirling Engine are also celebrated, including a miniature replica of the pioneering machine on display.

Initial opening hours for Galston Library will be Monday to Friday 9am–5pm and Saturday 10am–5pm, with a move to seven‑day opening considered in line with demand.

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