Kilmarnock

Our Story - Kilmarnock

Here we set out an overview of the masterplan vision, themes and approach, the key areas of study and the action plan framework

Background

Kilmarnock is one of Scotland’s oldest and proudest towns, with a history stretching back more than a thousand years. Named after St. Marnock, it grew from a small religious settlement into a thriving market town and later became an industrial powerhouse. The town became world-famous for industries such as carpet manufacturing, engineering, textiles, and whisky, playing a major role in shaping Scotland’s economy and identity.

Like many industrial towns, Kilmarnock faced difficult times as traditional industries declined, leading to job losses, empty buildings, and economic challenges. Yet the town has never lost its resilience. Its people, businesses, and community organisations have continued to work together to create new opportunities and preserve its unique identity.

Today

Now Kilmarnock s looking forward. The future of Kilmarnock is not about forgetting its past - it is about celebrating it and building on it.

Kilmarnock is creating a future which honours its traditions while opening its doors to innovations and the skills and abilities of new and upcoming generations.

The town story is one of resilience - a place that's proud of its past, confident in its future and determined to thrive once again.

Overview

Past

Kilmarnock is entering a new chapter, one of reinvigoration, renewal and growth.

Policy

Town Centre Regeneration is supported by national, regional and local policy in Scotland

Policy provides an essential framework and strategic direction to the revitalisation of the town centre. The Scottish Government's National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) policies and the Town Centre First principle reinforces the priority of the town centre, driving footfall and attracting private investment. Town Centre Regeneration is a national priority, making a shared vision for Kilmarnock Town Centre all the more relevant and necessary.

Possible

Kilmarnock’s last masterplan was developed in the 1970s, over 50 years ago. Creating a new masterplan will help shape the future of Kilmarnock and write the next chapter of our story.

The Masterplan Vision: A new Chapter seeks to unlock the art of the possible, build on what we have and look to the future with ambitious and bold ideas.

People

The people of Kilmarnock are resilient, proud of their past and ready to contribute to the future town.

Community spirit and grit are key qualities of the people of Kilmarnock, and their voice is critical in shaping their place, their community and their future. A new vision will help to restore pride in the town centre which is the heart of the community.

Place

Kilmarnock has a unique identity, rich culture and is full of creativity. It’s built and natural heritage tell a story of innovation and resilience. It is centrally located in the West of Scotland with affordable housing, good transport links and quality parks.

The Next Chapter will honour the strong local heritage and identity of Kilmarnock, strengthening its position in Ayrshire and giving the town centre and adjacent parks a new focus and future.

Partnership

Sustainable regeneration can only be achieved through collaboration and investment. This will be a key driver to the delivery of the vision and masterplan by encouraging new businesses, entrepreneurship, investment and promoting community wellbeing.

This is a “once on a generation” opoportunity. By creating lasting change a shared vision, multi-sector collaboration and genuine community engagement is intended to bring in millions in investment to transform public spaces, repurpose vacant buildings and inject new life into the town centre. The Next Chapter is designed to support multiuse within the town centre and to attract a wide range of people to help create a sustainable place.