A GROUP of Scotland’s leading architects and heritage experts are to develop a masterplan for Ellisland Farm.
The £30k masterplan and viability study was commissioned by the Robert Burns Ellisland Trust charity, which has run the site since 2020. The plan will be funded by The Architectural Heritage Fund/Historic Environment Scotland, South of Scotland Enterprise and The Holywood Trust.
Delfinity Limited won the contract to develop a sustainable future for the farm, where Burns wrote some his most well known work. The project will explore how to grow audiences and deliver creative learning on site, and seeks to improve biodiversity and access, including by foot, bicycle and public transport.
The site has been run as a heritage attraction since 1928, thanks mainly to the efforts of volunteers. The masterplan will propose ways to create world class facilities, restore the 1788 buildings and develop new trading income streams as the charity receives no regular public subsidy.
Trust business development manager Joan McAlpine said: “We are so excited to work with such a talented team of experts. The home of Auld Lang Syne should be recognised around the world as a place to celebrate Burns, nature and Scottish culture.
“We want more people, especially young people, to be inspired by Ellisland the way Burns was inspired – and also to generate economic benefit and jobs for this part of South Scotland. We will of course reach out to the wider community to develop that vision.”
Director of Delfinity and lead on the project Hazel Allen added:“The Delfinity team are thrilled to be working with the Trust to develop a compelling Masterplan for this unique site, so pivotal in the life of Burns. Delfinity have a strong track record in the creation of robust, sustainable business models in the third and private sectors and are excited by the breadth of opportunity that the Ellisland could offer.”
