Ayr we go! Callum helps open superb new Riverside Arena facility

Thursday 9th February 2023

Facilities Strategy maps out priorities for next four years

Councillors from South Ayrshire Council and guests visited the new Riverside Sports Arena at Craigie in Ayr this week for the venue’s official opening.

Double Olympian Callum Hawkins was among those helping to mark the occasion with Ayr Seaforth AC among key partners at the £8.5m facility.

Depute Provost Mary Kilpatrick cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the much-anticipated sport and athletics facility. She was joined by Leader of South Ayrshire Council, Martin Dowey, former Leader of South Ayrshire Council Douglas Campbell, and other local councillors.

Local sporting groups, club and organisations were also in attendance alongside special guest Team GB athlete Callum Hawkins, who is the Scottish record holder for the marathon.

University of West of Scotland coverage from Ayr

Photo courtesy of South Ayrshire Council

The £8.5m Council project features state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor sporting facilities including an eight lane, 400m running track; a six lane, 60m indoor running track; a field events area; and a 3G all-weather pitch, along with fully accessible changing areas and a café.

Councillor Brian Connolly, Sport and Leisure Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: ‘It’s fantastic to come back and see the completed arena- which is extremely impressive!

‘This is another Sports facility to add to our portfolio and will allow athletes in South Ayrshire to train and compete at the highest level. We look forward to welcoming events and competitions to the stadium.’

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Ayr Seaforth excited about move to new facility

We featured the plans for the Riverside Arena in PB during 2022 as Ayr Seaforth AC prepared to move from their traditional home at Dam Park.