NORTH Ayrshire Council and The Prince’s Regeneration Trust (PRT) are working in partnership to breathe new life into a former industrial landmark.

Stoneyholm Mill in Kilbirnie, a 19th century Category B-listed mill, is a key part of Kilbirnie’s industrial history. It was established as a cotton spinning mill in 1831, then subsequently adapted for flax spinning in the late 19th century. It was then used for the manufacturing of fishing nets and twine.

Local employer W & J Knox Ltd, who occupy a small proportion of the building, are working alongside the Council and PRT to safeguard the building’s future and bring it back into use.

The organisations are keen to involve local residents in the regeneration plans and are hosting a special public meeting next week to get people involved from the very beginning.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday September 20, 6-7.30pm, in the Walker Memorial Hall in Kilbirnie.

At the meeting, Dr. Susan O’Connor, Senior Projects Advisor at PRT, will talk about how the community can play a key role in the project by setting up a building preservation trust to help save the Mill, and about the activities which could act as a catalyst for further local regeneration.

Speaking about the project, Dr. Susan O’Connor, said: “We are delighted to be helping to safeguard Stoneyholm Mill. With a bit of imagination, enthusiasm and passion many historic buildings can become real assets to local communities and create job opportunities and a central point for community activity.

“Realising the full potential of Stoneyholm will provide a valuable community asset and we hope it has a catalytic effect by encouraging further regeneration in the local and wider community with positive benefits for residents and businesses.”

Councillor Alex Gallagher, North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with The Prince’s Regeneration Trust to kick-start the regeneration of the former industrial landmark.

“Stoneyholm Mill is not only a prominent feature in Kilbirnie, it also serves as a reminder of the rich history and heritage in the Garnock Valley.

“Many local residents have fond family memories from when the building was thriving. That’s why we are looking to bring them on board with this project and allow them to help guide the Mill’s new beginning.

“This is an exciting time for the building and indeed the wider community. We hope they join us on what will be an interesting and fulfilling journey.”

The Regeneration of Stoneyholm Mill initiative is being part-funded by the Scottish Government and European community LEADER Programme 2014-2020.