Lights, camera, action as Lyric’s story rolls on

Work is underway on an Ardrossan landmark – the Lyric.

After lying empty for years, the building is being brought back to life by Hooper Grey Developments, with substantial backing from Irvine Bay Regeneration Company.

The “B” Listed Building, opened in 1914, is about to enjoy a new lease of life as high quality shops and flats, bringing life back to a wonderful building. There will be a retail unit on the ground floor, with a combination of one and two bedroomed flats.

The regeneration company is providing gap-funding of £350,000 to preserve the frontage of the building. This section will see the creation of a shop and two one-bedroom flats. The building to the rear will be demolished, and new building will create six two-bedroom flats.

Margaret Ford, Chair of Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, said: “This is a landmark building in a key location in the middle of Ardrossan. Without our intervention and support, this work would not have been financially viable in the current climate, and this is a further example of how the regeneration company is able to work with developers to ensure we continue to make progress in revitalising Irvine Bay.

We look forward to the building returning to useful life, enhancing the Ardrossan, and helping to stimulate further investment in the regeneration of the area.”

Barry Hill of Hooper Grey Developments Ltd. added: “We are delighted to finally commence this exciting project of converting the old Lyric cinema. Through our sister company Hovepark Properties we will offer these high quality apartments for rent within the next few months.

“We have already received several enquiries for the retail unit, which will certainly enhance the long awaited revival of the town. The Lyric has always been regarded as the heart of Ardrossan, and Hooper Grey are proud to be involved in the regeneration of such a beautiful old building.

“We feel that the partnership between Irvine Bay Regeneration Company and Hooper Grey will help to provide Ardrossan with the heart beat that is sadly missing at the moment. We could not have brought this project to fruition without them.”