The new Belleisle Clubhouse in Ayr has been officially opened by South Ayrshire Council. The ribbon was cut for the new £1.5m facility on Wednesday 11 May, with golfers already descending on an impressive new structure which significantly improves facilities for golfers and guests.
The Belleisle championship course was designed by James Braid in 1927 and remains one of the most popular golf courses in Scotland, viewed by many as one of the best public inland courses in the country.
James Braid's granddaughters Marjorie Mackie and Betty Hope and his great granddaughter Fiona Collins were the special guests of honour at the event, where they saw first-hand how their famous relative's legacy was being preserved for future generations.
The clubhouse was officially opened by South Ayrshire Provost, Helen Moonie.
Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said the new clubhouse was a facility to be proud of, "This fabulous new building is the perfect fit with the surrounding courses which have built up an enviable reputation across Scotland and further afield.
"The clubhouse is a versatile building that provides modern facilities that will help to nurture the next generation of golfers, but will also play a role in community life, with a range of functions and events able to be held here.
"I'm confident that everyone that visits this eye-catching landmark will agree that the new clubhouse has been worth the wait, and it will help to attract fresh interest from golfers from around the world in the years ahead."
The new Clubhouse features modern changing accommodation, a new professional golf shop, new starter facilities, club rooms, lounge area, and a golf simulator room. The clubhouse will operate as a family-orientated licenced premise with capacity for 180 people. A full-range of services including bar meals, receptions, televised sports, as well as outdoor events, will all be catered for.
Marjorie Mackie said the development meant that her grandfather's work would continue to be enjoyed well into the 21st century, "This wonderful clubhouse perfectly complements the surrounding grounds and I'm sure my grandfather would have approved.
"Belleisle and Seafield are the second of his double courses, after his Gleneagles Kings and Queens, which leaves these two courses in good company.
"My family and I are delighted to have been asked to attend as guests of honour at the official opening, with the family all very proud of our association with golf at Belleisle."