Kilmartin Museum in Argyll has secured the first stage of funding for its £6.5m redevelopment project.

The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) endorsed the museum's application for a £3.1m grant, as well as awarding £400,000 to develop the proposals further.

Success with a second round application will provide the remaining funds required to commence capital works in 2018.

A second round success would also put the new museum on course to reopen in 2020.

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The £6.5m Redevelopment Project will transform the existing buildings and safeguard the museum's collections.

Colin McLean, HLF, said: "As people have come and gone over the centuries, the standing stones of Kilmartin have stood firm representing over 5000 years of Scottish history.

"Thanks to players of the National Lottery, we are delighted to support the development of a project which will transform Kilmartin Museum so that it can perform its vital role in interpreting and promoting this internationally important landscape."

Kilmartin Museum cares for some of Britain's oldest Bronze Age and Neolithic artefacts dating back to at least 3,500 BC, some of which are unique.

(LM)