Doon the Beach: Stevenston community beach hub and cafe nears opening

The building 'Doon the Beach' was officially handed over to the volunteers who helped put bring the project to life last Friday, February 3.

Contractors McLaughlin Construction handed over the keys to Elizabeth and Margaret (pictured left and middle left) as the project years in the making finally nears completion.

McLaughlin's also presented the pair with a small token of a hamper to wish their clients the best of luck in their ongoing venture!

McLaughlin Construction handed over a hamper as a small token to wish the project team the best of luck in their venture. (Image: Charlie Gilmour Photography)

The Herald visited for the handover, and caught up with the volunteers to discuss what the cafe and community hub will bring to Stevenston and the Three Towns.

The hub obtained funding allowing to create five new jobs for staff who will operate the cafe on a daily basis.

Staff have been in training over the past few weeks - and some locals may have managed to pick up a hot drink bargain when passing while this has taken place.

The hub will officially open to the public on Monday, February 20, following a soft launch event for invited guests on Saturday, February 18.

Upon opening, they will operate from 9am until 5pm Monday through Sunday - with plans in place to extend these hours as we move into the spring and summer months.

While a number of additional facilities will also be on offer at the hub located next to the swing park on Stevenston's Shore Road.

It is intended to be ideal for those out for a walk along our stunning coast line - with toilet facilities that all can use, and hot and cold food and drinks to be available.

While you will be able to bring your furry friends along - with the cafe being dog friendly.

Inclusivity has been a major part of the process, with the hub designed to be completely accessible for all.

While this extends to dietry requirements - with a menu being produced to be completely allergin friendly.

There is also an outside area to the cafe - which is perfectly positioned next to the swing park so parents can enjoy a bite to eat and a drink while their children make use of the neighbouring amenity.

And this is a facility that is truly designed to be "for the community".

The indoor space will be available for local groups to rent for groups and clubs.

While partnerships are planned between local schools - such as providing work experience opportunities for pupils from the nearby Lockhart Campus.

While this project has taken time, having first been discussed pre-Covid pandemic, it is hoped that it will benefit the community for years to come.

For more information, and the latest updates, visit the hub's Facebook page - tinyurl.com/DoontheBeach.