PLANS have been revealed for the creation of South Ayrshire's first-ever mosque.
The Muslim place of worship would be launched in Ayr - in the former home of the town's Railway Club.
The James Street venue was listed for sale back in April, with an asking price of £120,000.
Agents DM Hall have, in recent weeks, stated that the property was "under offer" - and now the purchaser of the building has been unveiled.
The Al-Farooq Education and Community Centre (AFECC) has stated on its website that it has now bought the property.
AFECC is a Glasgow-based charity which looks to spread and preserve the original teachings of Islam.
It aims to be a leading, welcoming and inspirational hub while simultaneously educating and encouraging people to "strive in their pursuit of acquiring the sweetness of faith" via various activities and programmes.
After announcing their purchase of the former Ayr Railway Club, the AFECC has now launched a fundraising campaign to help transform the venue into South Ayrshire's only Mosque.
The charity says it is looking to raise around £149,000 to complete the project.
A spokesperson said: "AFECC is proud to announce the purchase of a property to serve the growing Muslim community in Ayr.
"To make this project a reality, we need to raise additional funds. The Muslim population in Ayr has steadily increased, creating a strong need for a dedicated space for prayer and community activities.
"Currently, the community gathers for prayer in a hall above a shop, which can only accommodate 70-80 people.
"With nearly 100 local Muslim families from diverse backgrounds, there’s a significant number who lack a proper place for worship and community connection.
"This new property, conveniently located near the town centre, will provide a space for prayer and community gatherings."
The property has become the second to be purchased by the organisation. A similar project was launched around two years ago in North Ayrshire.
AFECC have purchased Barony St John’s Church in Ardrossan, with a fundraising campaign also launched to transform the old Church of Scotland building. Work on this project is still ongoing.
There are currently only two mosques in Ayrshire, located in Cumnock and Kilmarnock - both in East Ayrshire.
More information on the Ayr plans can be found online at afecc.co.uk/build-a-mosque-charity-uk/.
