Kilmarnock church kitchen plans approved despite objection

The Category A listed Laigh Kirk in John Dickie Street will see alterations to transform its existing choir room into a kitchen and store facility.

The works, approved by East Ayrshire Council, will also include the installation of ventilation grilles in existing windows, the provision of two toilets with new sanitary ware and fittings, and the installation of a new serving hatch.

The sound desk is set to be relocated to the balcony, and a 1:15 ramp will be provided to improve accessibility.

Additionally, the main entrance will see identified doors replaced with glazed ones.

The approval is conditional on protecting the building's historic character, particularly by retaining original window glazing for possible future reinstatement.

Any glazing removed to install the ventilation grilles must be securely stored throughout the period the grilles are used.

If the ventilation system and extract grilles cease to be used for their intended purposes, the grilles must be removed and the original glazing reinstated within six months.

These requirements are particularly significant due to the church's listed status.

The application, submitted by the New Laigh Kirk Congregational Board, received one objection concerning the alteration of historic window glazing and the potential loss of astragals.

However, the council considered that the revised design addressed the concern because the existing window framing would remain in place.

The works must commence within three years of the consent date, which was issued on November 4.

To view the application in full, you can go to East Ayrshire Council's planning portal under reference 26/0356/LB.