Ayr secure £250,000 from Growth and Participation Fund

Ayr RFC have £2m plans to redevelop their aging clubhouse, and bring to life inclusive changing facilities, a multi-purpose studio, a strength and conditioning gym, and a community café.

The club are one of two successful applicants to Scottish Rugby’s major capital investment fund this year.

The rollout of the huge redevelopment plans at Millbrae will be staggered, with phase one’s new access road and phase two’s all-weather pitch and floodlights on target to be completed by mid-January 2025.

The Growth and Participation Fund is part of the Government’s grant funding given to Scottish Rugby during Covid-19.

Phase three sees the redevelopment of the “tired clubhouse,” Ayr chairman and project lead Brian Williamson said.

“Millbrae was originally an old market garden and the original farm buildings date back to the 18^th century. These form the core of the clubhouse with later extensions being added over the years as the club grew.

“The structure is in dire need of a major overhaul and phase three will see us build a new strength and conditioning gym, flexible studio space, a community café, additional accessible toilets, inclusive changing rooms and facilities for match officials.

“We also have an elevator and stairs going up to the first floor of the old squash courts where there will be additional studio space and changing rooms. The studio is particularly exciting, as it will be available for the general community, providing classes for dance, yoga and pilates. We will also use it for meetings and match analysis sessions.

“This all works for the club and the community but has to be self-sustaining and commercially viable going forward,” he said.

With the financial and practical support of local businessman, Alan Macdonald, Brian and the Ayr Rugby Club board have aspirational plans for Millbrae.

“Phases one and two are already covered by the Macdonald Legacy with the financing of phase three being a work in progress.

“Huge efforts from the club are making steady progress towards that number. We are applying for grants and financial support from other organisations and are planning to launch fundraising initiatives.

“We are looking at offering members the opportunity to purchase a seat in the stand, dedicated tree planting initiatives and many others. All of which focus solely on raising funds for the refurbishments. It’s the dripping tap that fills the sink.

“We hope to start phase three in spring, with a focus on completing it as soon as practical,” Brian added.

Director of Rugby Development Gav Scott said he was glad to be investing in clubs of the future, such as Ayr and Aberdeen Grammar.

“Investing in projects that promote the sustainability of the game is what this fund is all about. It’s great to work with clubs who are providing great outlets to their communities.”