Work has officially commenced on a project to convert the former AG Barr Irn Bru site in Camelon, Falkirk, into a national hub for heritage and maritime expertise. Construction at the site, now known as Lock 16: Scotland's Centre of Excellence for Canals and Traditional Skills, began on 5 March 2026.

Robertson Construction Central East is serving as the main contractor for the scheme, which follows initial repairs to the structure's walls and roof. The initiative is led by Scottish Canals in collaboration with Historic Environment Scotland (HES). Once complete, it will stand as the largest facility in the country dedicated to the development and teaching of high-quality traditional and heritage skills.

The project is the second to receive approval under the £100 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal (FGGD). This programme is designed to aid the region's transition toward net zero while addressing future workforce requirements. The new centre specifically aims to preserve Scotland's historic environment by fostering specialist expertise.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: "The Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal, supported by £50 million of Scottish Government investment, is about delivering long-term benefits to the local communities and businesses.

"The Lock 16 project will breathe new life into the Forth and Clyde Canal network with work and training facilities fit for the 21st century. It is also, critically, an investment in Scotland's proud industrial heritage, ensuring we support and retain the traditional and specialist skills that are vital to safeguarding the country's iconic buildings, landmarks and legacies."

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David Cairns, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central East, said: "As the partner of choice for Lock 16, we are proud to be delivering a project that will encourage and train people in heritage skills that can be used within the built environment.

"The construction sector has advanced greatly but it is essential that these skills are still taught in order that Scotland's important historic sites can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come, and new buildings have the potential to benefit from heritage crafts."

The redevelopment plans include the creation of a new main entrance and a standalone structure inside the existing building to accommodate offices and classrooms. The main hall is to be divided into various workshop zones. External works involve the demolition of outbuildings, landscaping, and the installation of a new car park featuring electric vehicle charging points.

Richard Millar, Scottish Canals' Chief Operating Officer, said: "This is an exciting new project for Scottish Canal and a significant milestone for Lock 16: Scotland's Centre for Excellence and Traditional Skills. The project has only been made possible through support of our funding partners and we look forward to working with local communities as construction gets underway to ensure the centre delivers lasting benefits. The centre will play a vital role in protecting heritage skills, supporting training and apprenticeships and investing in the future of our canal network.

"From concept to commitment this marks the beginning of a new chapter for the former AG Barr Factory and for the industries and people of Falkirk and Grangemouth."

Dr David Mitchell, Director of Cultural Assets at Historic Environment Scotland, said: "We are pleased that the project has seen another key step in its journey to becoming Scotland's new centre of excellence for canals and traditional Skills. The centre will provide a key opportunity to further champion and place a spotlight on skills and crucially open up new pathways for sharing expertise and innovation across sectors."

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council, added: "Projects like this show how investment can translate into real, everyday benefits – from bringing a long-standing vacant site back into productive use to supporting jobs and skills locally. It's a practical example of how the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal is helping to regenerate places and strengthen the local economy over the long term. It's great that work has started on site, as people can now begin to see that investment taking shape."

Funding for the Lock 16 project has been secured from the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF), Scottish Canals, and Historic Environment Scotland.