An educational and research base in North Ayrshire has been described as 'thriving' following a significant investment.

Two years ago the Millport Field Centre was temporarily closed with its future uncertain.

However the base, used for marine science field study and training, is now successful following a major investment from the council, the Scottish Government and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The centre has been redeveloped to facilitate the expansion of the facility by its new operators, the Field Studies Council (FSC).

The University Marine Biological Station Millport (UMBSM) had previously been run by the University of London.

On 1 July, local councillors joined by Housing Minister Margaret Burgess celebrated the Phase One completion of the development.

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A new accommodation building with 32 twin en-suite rooms, a 150-seat lecture theatre and teaching laboratory/teaching room has been built.

A car park and access roads has also been completed.

An environmentally-friendly Biomass District Heating system has been installed, significantly reducing the carbon footprint and operating costs of the centre.

The total for Phase One was just over £3 million, with the council investing almost £1.5 million.

Funding for a second phase involving the refurbishment of existing accommodation and teaching facilities has also been secured from a variety of sources including; the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Coastal Communities Fund, Robertson Trust, Garfield Weston and the Wolfson Foundation.

Housing Minister Burgess said: "I’m delighted the Scottish Government has been able to help secure the future of this centre through the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund and Scottish Funding Council.

Council Leader Willie Gibson said: "I’m delighted to be here celebrating this fantastic facility.

"It is fantastic to now see the investment realised, the quality of the product, and the centre already being used by staff and students."

(LM)