A REGENERATION project on Belleisle Park has reached a major milestone that is breathing new life into the area. 

Residents from across South Ayrshire are being invited to celebrate the success of the venture at a special event later this month.

With its history dating back to the 18th century, the £3.7million programme to restore Belleisle Estate began back in 2014, after the project secured a £1.9million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. 

With the project having now reached a major milestone, a celebration took place to mark the progress to date on Saturday, July 22.

So far, almost 10 parts of the park have either been restored, refurbished or replaced: including Belleisle Conservatory has been restored (in partnership with Belleisle Conservatory Ltd).

Stonework for the walled garden has been restored, and the rockery has been refurbished, while two new Rangers have been appointed to increase events and activities.

A new children’s play area has also been opened.

Tree and shrub planting includes 35,000 native bluebells and more than 1,000 plugs of wildflowers have been planted, a network of footpaths are being refurbished throughout the estate and there is work with SRUC and Ayrshire Colleges to provide an educational resource.

Councillor Ian Cochrane, South Ayrshire Council’s portfolio holder for sustainability and the environment, said: “Belleisle remains a popular destination with visitors to the park increasing by 100% to 200,000 a year since 2014.

“With much already achieved, we’re still working hard with our partners to make sure the project is delivered in full. The next major project will see the old stables site being brought back to life as a visitor hub that will act as an anchor spot for everyone who comes here.

“The community day is being held to celebrate the fantastic progress that’s been made already, which underlines our commitment to improve the environment for community benefit, something that will continue in the years ahead.”

To mark the occasion, a free ‘Belleisle Parklife’ event was held on Saturday, July 22 between 1-5pm, where the community were invited to go along and see the progress for themselves. 

Activities included crafts, archery, and a range of activities for children.