THE Scottish Seabird Centre has unveiled details of the updated architectural plan for the proposed national marine centre in north Berwick.
The designs for the site have “evolved” following feedback from a consultation. Andy Davey, partner at architects Simpson & Brown said, “We have worked very hard to design a sensitive scheme on an important and challenging site, responding to the education and conservation objectives of the charity.
“The scheme will be able to accommodate the new education programmes and activities being developed in partnership with conservation and research organisations. The updated plans fit with the mix of buildings within the Conservation Area, minimise impact on the harbour and improve the public realm space. A Heritage Impact Assessment has been undertaken, following guidelines set out by Historic Environment Scotland. We strongly believe that this proposal will enhance the built landscape of the area in a similar way to the construction of the original Seabird Centre seventeen years ago.”
The Scottish Seabird Centre said analysis of the economic impact of the proposed marine centre conducted by EKOS reinforced the message that it will bring “considerable benefits” to East Lothian and Scotland.
Tom Brock OBE, CEO of the Scottish Seabird Centre added, “The aim of the national marine centre is to build on the work undertaken by the Seabird Centre team by diversifying to incorporate the wider marine environment and wildlife above and below the waves, including seabirds. The economic impact at regional and national levels is significant and that coupled with our charitable objective to encourage people to protect and conserve the marine environment and wildlife for future generations reinforces the importance of this project.”
