Work to build a new eco-friendly bird observatory on Fair Isle looks set to be completed by the end of this month - several weeks ahead of schedule.

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) granted £400,000 towards the ambitious £4 million building project in March 2009, helping one of the most remote and fragile communities in Scotland to grow its business.

The 40 year old building was knocked down in July and work started on a new modern building in August following the Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust's (FIBOT) success in raising funds for the capital phase of the project.

With up to 28 workmen currently on the island, the building is now due to be substantially finished before Christmas. Meanwhile, fundraising is continuing for additional items such as two new generators, internal fittings, interpretive boards and equipment for the conference room.

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The Fair Isle Bird Observatory has been an internationally renowned centre for researching migratory birds and sea birds, and is used by several universities to carry out important scientific studies.

It attracts thousands of birdwatchers from all over the world, providing a centre for scientists and students to continue their long-term research on Fair Isle's migratory and resident birds. Other visitors can come to view the birds and learn about them as part of their visit to Fair Isle.

The new building will continue to play a key role in the island's community, helping to boost the local economy by attracting tourists. It also underpins the local shop and the lifeline air and ferry services for the 70 island residents.

HIE approved backing for the project, recognising the potential that improved facilities for scientific research and visitor accommodation will have on Fair Isle's future welfare.

FIBO warden Deryk Shaw said that the Trust was delighted with the works being so ahead of schedule.

He said: "We are pleased with all the funding we have received to date, which will go a long way towards helping to retain and expand our activities.

"We spent a year looking into the feasibility of renovating it, but realised that the most cost effective solution was to build a new centre."

Synergie Scotland and AH Wilson are the contractors working on site.

(GK/KMcA)