By Paul Behan

Copyright dailyrecord

The group behind ambitious plans to restore the 118-year-old Girvan Bandstand and turn it into an events space and cafe have been given a boost in their search for funding. The Bandstand Project, who are working in association with The Adventure Centre for Education group (ACE), have successfully negotiated their way through the first stage of a funding application. They are through to stage two of a current bid for cash from the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund – and they have several other irons in the fire regarding funding possibilities. A statement from the group said on social media said: “It’s been a while since we’ve provided an update, but there’s been lots of work going on behind the scenes! “We’re delighted to say following a successful first stage application to the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund for The Bandstand Project, we have now been invited to proceed to Stage 2. “We also have funding applications in to various other grant providers with results due in the coming months.” The statement continues: “The Bandstand Project remains on course as we are about to engage a professional team for the final development stages, and we hope to be able to provide a full update by the end of this year.” The statement adds: “Thank you for the continued support of this project!” Ayrshire Live told last year how plans to restore the Bandstand were given the green light by council planners. Once operational, the scheme will be run as a social enterprise creating work experience programmes for young people and people getting back into work. In addition, the building will also be hired for small functions and pop-up events. The bandstand was built in 1907 after Stair Park was gifted to the community by the Bargany Estate in 1875. It is a single storey building built of brick, concrete, wood, tile and original ironwork. Originally built as a tea kiosk, it was used to provide refreshments to locals and hundreds of tourists who visited Girvan. It also played host to seaside entertainers including Pierrot Troupes and musicians. In the 1960s, when seaside entertainment waned, the building was used by various community groups including a meeting place for elderly people. It then became vacant and fell into disrepair in the 1990s and has lain empty since. In recent years, part of the floor has collapsed, and the building has been victim to instances of antisocial behaviour. To find out more about the project e-mail funding@adventurecentreforeducation.com