Rebuilding the lost village of Glenbuck
A heritage-led regeneration project delivering the long-term restoration of Glenbuck, a historic Scottish mining village and birthplace of Bill Shankly.
From coals to goals — Glenbuck's unique heritage
Glenbuck is one of Scotland’s most culturally significant rural communities. Though small in size, its influence reaches far beyond Ayrshire, shaped by industrial labour, collective identity, and an extraordinary footballing legacy.
Founded on coal and iron, Glenbuck grew around mining families who lived and worked in close-knit rows such as Monkey Row. This strong sense of solidarity later found expression on the football field, where the Glenbuck Cherrypickers produced an exceptional number of professional players from a tiny population.
Most famously, Glenbuck is the birthplace of Bill Shankly, whose values of hard work, fairness, and community were forged in the village and went on to shape global football. The regeneration of Glenbuck is not only a physical restoration, but the revival of a story that continues to inspire.
Planned facilities & features
Facilities will be delivered through a phased, long-term development programme aligned with funding and community priorities.
Monkey Row
Home to the mining families who gave Glenbuck its character, Monkey Row will be rebuilt as the centrepiece of the village and a living link to its industrial past.
Museum & visitor centre
A flagship attraction celebrating the Glenbuck Cherrypickers, Bill Shankly, and the village’s mining history. The centre will include exhibitions, interactive storytelling, a gift shop, and educational spaces.
Eco-accommodation
A mix of historically accurate cottages, authentic‑style modern accommodation, and high‑spec glamping pods will provide diverse options for visitors while generating sustainable income.
Trails & activities
A network of walking and cycling routes, interpretation trails, wellbeing zones, and nature‑based learning areas will encourage exploration and support year‑round tourism.
Where regeneration creates lasting impact
The regeneration of Glenbuck is designed to create meaningful, long-term value for people, place, and planet. Through heritage-led development, sustainable tourism, and community ownership, the project delivers economic opportunity, social renewal, and environmental stewardship in balance.
Economic impact
The project will create new jobs, support local suppliers, and drive year-round visitor spend. By prioritising local procurement, training, and small enterprise, Glenbuck will help strengthen the rural economy and keep value circulating within the community.
Social impact
Glenbuck’s revival puts people and heritage at its heart. Through education, volunteering, and shared storytelling, the project builds community pride, supports wellbeing, and reconnects generations with the village’s cultural and sporting legacy.
Environmental impact
Sustainability is embedded across the site, from low-carbon buildings to habitat restoration. Renewable energy, biodiversity enhancement, and nature-based wellbeing spaces will protect the landscape while encouraging deeper connection with the natural environment.
Leadership team
Led by a committed team combining heritage insight, regeneration experience, and strong community values.
Karen Gill
Educator, community leader, and granddaughter of Bill Shankly. Brings heritage expertise, global football connections, and community engagement skills.
Terry May
Qualified Quantity Surveyor and regeneration specialist with experience in heritage refurbishment, construction, and community-led development.
Lianne McGinnes
Community leader and funding strategist with over 25 years’ experience in youth, community, and social enterprise development.
Kevin O'Toole
An experienced operational management professional with over 30 years’ expertise across finance, IT, customer service, and project delivery.
