The project to build a state-of-the-art visitor centre at Bannockburn has taken another significant step forward, after First Minister Alex Salmond confirmed funding was now in place to allow construction work to start in the summer.

Speaking during a visit to Stirling Castle today, the First Minister announced that the Battle of Bannockburn Project would commence building and landscaping work in early summer, with work to conserve the historic monuments on site also scheduled to start later this year, subject to local planning consents.

Contractors have been shortlisted for building and landscaping work and for the conservation of to the listed monuments, including the iconic statue of Robert the Bruce, and the tender process is now underway.

The construction schedule, revealed today, will see the current visitor centre demolished in the autumn. A programme of education activities will continue take place off site and there when a small information centre set up during construction. The new, world class facility will open in time for the 700th anniversary of the battle in June 2014 and will house a unique and exciting exhibition which will immerse the visitor in the sights and sounds of medieval battle.

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First Minister Alex Salmond said: "The eyes of the world will be on Scotland during 2014, with international events such as the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup being held on our shores.

"2014 also marks the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn, and I am delighted to announce today a significant milestone in the commemoration of this fascinating period of Scottish history in what will be the most ambitious partnership between the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Scotland."

Kate Mavor, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland said: "With the forward programme of works now confirmed, we can move forward with the transformation of the Battlefield to make it worthy of the great weight of history that surrounds it.

"We will focus on delivering interpretative and educational content that will be second to none. By the time of the 700th anniversary of the battle, visitors will have an unforgettable experience as they confront the context and reality of an event of enormous significance in the story of Scotland."

The Battle of Bannockburn Project is a joint venture by the National Trust for Scotland and Historic Scotland, on behalf of the Scottish Government, to provide a new visitor centre and experience for one of the most significant battles in Scotland’s history for the 700th anniversary in the 2014.

The Centre will house state of the art installations that will provide a step-change in interpretation and learning and highlight the significance of this pivotal event in our history. Generous contributions of £5 million from the Scottish Government and £3.9 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund are being made to realise this ambitious project in time for the 700th anniversary of the battle in 2014.

(GK/DW)