A CHARITY set up by King Charles has submitted plans to transform a prominent fixture on the Dumfries House estate.
The King's Foundation has lodged the plans to dismantle and rebuild the marquee building to the rear of the main house.
Plans would see the marquee shifted further south of the home on the outskirts of Cumnock.
The "temporary marquee" has become a vital fixture in the hosting of events at the home, with many weddings taking place there.
"The marquee accommodates upwards of 150 dinner guests and relieves pressure on the house.
"Event hosting is vitally important to the survival of all that goes on within Dumfries House estate and farther afield, where the foundation are leading local regeneration projects and community initiatives.
"Income generated by wedding and corporate event hosting is essential to the day to day running of the estate and the wide range of educational programmes that run throughout the year."
It adds: "The local authority and Historic Environment Scotland have acknowledged that the marquee pavilion is a necessary component within the Dumfries House operation.
"However, it has always been understood that this is a temporary solution to a difficult problem.
"This period of temporary operation will sustain the events business while work is on-going to refine an appropriate design for this complex new building on a very challenging, sensitive site."
Plans were submitted to East Ayrshire Council's planning authority last week, with a decision expected by early in 2025 at the latest.
The full plans can be viewed on the council's planning portal by searching for application 24/0515/PP.
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