South Ayrshire Council has approved the transfer of the Hosiery Park Pavilion in Troon to the Troon Men's Shed (TMS), a registered charity.
Community Asset Transfer Approved
The decision follows an application by TMS to the local authority for a Community Asset Transfer of the building under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015.
Until 2020, the pavilion building was used to provide changing facilities for the football pitches at Hosiery Park. As a result of new changing facilities in the park being constructed by the Council, the original pavilion had no identified use.
Currently, the group hires hall spaces in Troon for monthly meetings, attended by more than 30 members.
New Home for Men's Shed
The transfer will now enable TMS to repair and redevelop the pavilion to establish a 'Men's Shed', providing a space which promotes and improves public health, social and environmental wellbeing and regeneration of the area.
Members of TMS will benefit from a safe and inclusive space, in which men can participate in regular activities such as woodworking and other hobbies that help to reduce social isolation, improve self-esteem and mental health.
The transfer follows approval of other recent Community Asset Transfers which benefit local communities, including McCosh Hall and Bowling Green in Kirkmichael; Coylton Tennis Club and Barr Community Centre.
Council Support
South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Housing and Property Services, Councillor Martin Kilbride, said: "I'm delighted that this transfer has been given the green light.
"By repurposing the pavilion, the building will be regularly maintained. Improvements to the exterior façade will also include the installation of solar PV and an air-source heat pump to ensure the building is as energy efficient as possible.
"Projects such as this highlight the positive work that our communities do and we are eager to continue supporting local groups through community asset transfers."
South Ayrshire Council's Policy Lead for Leisure and Community Services, Councillor Chris Cullen, said: "Troon Men's Shed plays an invaluable role in the local community, providing a welcoming space where men can build friendships, develop new skills, and support their physical and mental wellbeing.
"By tackling social isolation and fostering a strong sense of belonging, the group has become an important source of community connection and support.
"It's fantastic that they will now have a permanent home, enabling them to expand their activities, reach more people, and continue making a lasting positive difference across Troon."
Group Statement
A statement from the group on social media read: "Troon Men's Shed is delighted to announce that South Ayrshire Council has approved our Community Asset Transfer (CAT) application for the Hosiery Park Pavilion.
"This decision represents a major step forward for the Shed and follows 19 months of hard work, consultation, and community support.
"We extend our sincere thanks to our members, whose commitment and encouragement have been central to this success, local community groups and partners who provided letters of support and guidance and our funders, whose backing enables our activities and demonstrates the value of the Shed to the wider community.
"This approval marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Troon Men's Shed.
"We will keep members and supporters updated as we move into the next phases of planning and negotiation, and major fundraising to complete the repairs and redevelopment of the HPP building to become our permanent home."
