Trust given green light for McCosh Hall in Kirkmichael

Published 01 September 2025

South Ayrshire Council has approved the transfer of the McCosh Hall and Bowling Green to the Kirkmichael Ayrshire Development Trust (KADT).

The decision follows an application by the KADT to the Council for a Community Asset Transfer of the property under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015.

Opened in 1899, McCosh Hall has been at the centre of village life for over 125 years. In 1963 the Council took ownership of the hall so that the community could access the building and the adjacent bowling green.

Since 2020, the community-run shop and café has operated from the hall, providing essential local services. The transfer will see KADT give the operators of the shop and café, and the bowling club long-term leases.

The hall is currently used by around 18 community groups and hosts a wide range of activities. Badminton, karate, and carpet bowls all take place in the building as well as cinema nights, and music sessions. The History Group also use the hall to house and display the village archive.

The trust plan to expand storage facilities and make other improvements. The changes will mean local businesses, crafters, and food producers will be able to host markets, workshops, and pop-ups in the hall.

Chris Cox, Assistant Director Planning and Development at South Ayrshire Council said: "This is great news for Kirkmichael. The hall is a well-used and well-loved hub for the community. It's a focal point for gatherings and helps to limit social isolation, which can be an issue in rural locations.

"The improvements planned by KADT should future proof McCosh Hall and the bowling green. We're keen to empower communities and so far, we've concluded five community asset transfers, with several more in the pipeline."

A KADT Board spokesperson said: "The KADT Board is delighted to have reached this milestone in the CAT process for the McCosh Hall and Bowling Green.

"These assets are at the heart of community life in Kirkmichael and we feel strongly that community control and ownership is the best way to ensure their long-term success. We look forward to continuing to work with the council to make this vision a reality."