An aquaculture research facility located in Argyll is to undergo expansion work, it has been confirmed.

The Marine Environmental Research Laboratory (MERL) is part of the University of Stirling's Institute of Aquaculture and is based at Machrihanish in Argyll. The centre provides contract research services and facilities to the industry and to academics working within the sector. Its work focuses on new product development in veterinary medicine, vaccines and functional feeds for the salmon fishing industry. It develops a range of safe and environmentally acceptable products for sea lice control, including those derived from natural products. Sea lice are said to pose a major threat to the industry, accounting for a loss of around £33m in Scotland alone.

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MERL has said it now plans to upgrade and enhance its research facilities and maintain its reputation as a main leader in marine science.

Supported by £90,192 from the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), the £322,819 expansion project will increase the number of research tanks at the facility.

This will, in turn, deliver an increase in research capacity, thereby increasing employment and growing turnover.

Dr Bill Roy, MERL, said: "This new development is a welcome addition to the University of Stirling's research facilities at Machrihanish. We work closely with the aquaculture industry to tackle some of the important issues which affect its productivity and public reputation.

"The industry plays a major role in the economy of the Highlands and Islands and investment in research infrastructure is vital to maintain and develop this sector for the wider public benefit."

Morag Goodfellow, HIE, added: "MERL has an impressive client list including feed companies and multinational fish farming organisations. The research undertaken at the centre is important in safeguarding the longevity of the aquaculture industry – which is also a significant employer across the Highlands and Islands. This project is a key element in increasing the capacity of the centre and building on what is already considered a high quality research and development institution."

(JP/IT)