Construction has commenced on the modernisation and expansion of the Macduff Marine Aquarium in Aberdeenshire.

Ogilvie Construction, appointed as the contractor, has begun on-site pre-construction activities, building upon landscaping work started earlier this year. The project, funded by the UK Government, Aberdeenshire Council, and other external sources, aims to enhance the aquarium's facilities and visitor experience.

The redevelopment includes a two-storey extension designed to maximise coastal views, featuring a café-restaurant on the second floor overlooking the Moray Firth and the central kelp tank. The existing round aquarium building will be expanded to create increased activity space. While the central tank and general layout will remain, exhibits will be upgraded with improved features and interpretive displays.

A key focus of the project is to bolster the aquarium's educational and conservation efforts. The expansion will include a lobster hatchery for rearing larvae for release into the wild, supporting local lobster populations. A dedicated learning room will provide space for hands-on activities and events for visitors of all ages.

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Externally, a new landscaped activity area will be created on the east side of the building, featuring children's play areas and picnic benches. Pathways will be developed to connect with existing coastal paths, and biodiversity planting and public realm enhancements, including new paving and surfacing, will be implemented in the car park and surrounding areas.

Cllr Anne Stirling, Depute Leader and chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Communities Committee, said: "It's a really exciting time for everyone associated with Macduff Marine Aquarium as we see the construction getting underway on site. It will, of course, take time to complete and I would again ask that visitors and supporters of the aquarium bear with us as this major redevelopment takes place. I am delighted that our aquarium team will be continuing with its tremendous community learning programme, so please watch out for the various outreach activities being held throughout the year."

David Mason, Ogilvie Construction's operations director for Tayside and North Scotland, stated: "We are delighted to have been appointed to deliver Aberdeenshire Council's future vision for the Macduff Marine Aquarium. We will continue to work with their team throughout the delivery of the project and look forward to handing over a modern high-quality facility that will be a major attraction in the community."

Aquarium manager Claire Matthews emphasised the welfare of the marine life during the construction period, saying: "Throughout the refurbishment activity our team will be working hard to ensure the fish are kept safe and well as the work goes on around them. There will be temporary tanks set up away from the main areas of work and to hold those animals whose tanks will be upgraded, but the cold-water life support systems will be kept running throughout the project to keep the animals happy in their homes."

The project is expected to be completed in early 2025.