WMA Group has announced the purchase of Loudoun Hall, Ayr’s oldest surviving building and one of Scotland’s most historically important secular properties.
Image : WMA group.
The company plans to preserve the landmark while securing a sustainable future for it as a community and events venue.
WMA Group said it was honoured to become the new custodian of the historic property and would carefully protect its character while opening it up for meetings, workshops, exhibitions, performances and private functions.
Image: Burns For Everyone Acting Troupe at Loudon House.
A spokesperson said: “We are honoured to become its custodians and are committed to preserving this remarkable landmark while giving it a sustainable future for generations to come.
“As a company with a passion for restoring and managing historic properties, we see this as much more than a property purchase. It is an investment in Ayr’s history, culture and future.”
The announcement has particular significance for me and for Ayrshire Daily News, as the building holds many fond personal memories.
Many years ago, I was part of a small acting troupe called Burns For Everyone, alongside Donald Kay, Maggie Kay and the late, wonderful Denis Reid, who also wrote our plays.
We performed The Wedding of Robert Burns and Jean Armour inside the building and were later invited by the Loudoun Hall Appreciation Society to stage Tam O’ Shanter, If The Truth Were Known in the courtyard.
Those performances remain very special memories, particularly the opportunity to bring the stories of Robert Burns to life in such a historic setting.
It means a great deal to all of us at Ayrshire Daily News to know that this important part of Ayr’s heritage will once again be used and enjoyed by the community.
WMA Group also thanked the trustees for their dedication in caring for the property over many decades and for placing their confidence in the company.
Further details about the venue’s future are expected to be announced in due course.