£500,000 investment as English-based pro footballer talks up aparthotel and business hub for Ayrshire

An exciting Aparthotel and business hub venture in Ayrshire is receiving a £500,000 investment from English-based pro footballer Ian Henderson, the all-time leading goalscorer for Rochdale FC. Henderson has joined forces with three other businessmen representing 3 Sigma Ayr Ltd to transform Ayr’s historic Wellington Square. The consortium was granted planning permission earlier this year to convert a category B-listed property into two aparthotel suites in the basement and a business hub spanning the ground floor, first floor, and attic space. The project aims to cater to start-up companies and SMEs.

The transformation of the building is nearing completion, with significant restoration work carried out over the past few months. The Aparthotel and business hub are set to be fully operational by the end of January, offering modern amenities such as superfast broadband, secure video entry, and dedicated parking. This project marks a unique offering in Ayrshire, providing a hybrid aparthotel-business hub model that caters to the evolving needs of the community.

Ian Henderson highlighted the strategic choice of Ayrshire for the venture, citing its proximity to Glasgow, tourist attractions, and championship golf courses as key factors. The group’s mission is to revitalize vacant commercial buildings in the area, fostering economic growth and job creation. The total investment in the Wellington Square project, including property acquisition and refurbishment costs, is estimated at £500,000.

Partnering with Jamie Macdonald of Macdonald Engineers, the team is committed to delivering a high-quality, multi-use space under the Haüss branding. This innovative project aligns with the group’s vision of offering something distinct in the local market, supporting businesses, tourism, and the community. Additionally, the consortium is already involved in a similar development in Coatbridge, further expanding their footprint in Scotland.

Ian Henderson emphasised the significance of creating opportunities beyond the building restoration, aiming to contribute meaningfully to Ayr’s economy and community. The completion of the serviced offices marks the readiness for tenants, while the Aparthotel is set to welcome guests for bookings by the end of January 2025. With a focus on blending heritage with modern luxury, the Wellington Square project is poised to elevate Ayr as a prime destination for discerning travellers and business visitors.

In summary, the collaboration between Ian Henderson and his partners in revitalising Ayr’s Wellington Square into an innovative Aparthotel and business hub reflects a forward-thinking approach to repurposing historical spaces for contemporary needs. The project not only showcases a commitment to business and tourism growth in Ayrshire but also underscores the importance of community impact and economic development. By preserving heritage features while integrating modern amenities, the venture sets a new standard for multifunctional spaces in the region.