A multi-million redevelopment and extension of Macduff Marine Aquarium has reached an important milestone following the completion of steelworks installation.
The new two-storey extension at the front of the attraction will house the main entrance, retail area, new learning room, and upstairs café/restaurant, as well as a changing places toilet.
KR Group fabricated the 61 tonnes of steelwork, with Ogilvie Construction installing it across a three week period – following the pouring of 180 tonnes of concrete to create a new surface for the extension.
The next stage of construction will involve the commencement of both the external and internal finishes now that the steel frame has been completed. Prior to the most recent construction activities on-site, some external landscaping works were also completed with the installation of benches looking out to sea.
The project is being developed with the support of UK Government funding together with other external funding streams and financial support from Aberdeenshire Council.
Once completed early next year, the aquarium will benefit from ‘significant modernisation’ which will include expanded facilities and enhanced exhibits and will help fully realise the aquarium’s potential and significantly enhance the visitor experience, the council said.
Aberdeenshire Council co-leader and chair of the communities committee, councillor Anne Stirling, said, “It’s tremendous to see the very distinct shape of the extended aquarium really taking shape and I congratulate everyone on-site for their outstanding efforts in making our vision a reality. I know the local community and indeed people from far and wide will treasure this modernised aquarium for many years to come.”
John Walker, projects director at Ogilvie Construction North, added, “It is great to see the progress that the team have made in the few months since work started on site and we look forward to continuing this momentum as we move forward into the next phase of the build.”
Nicola Fraser, co-owner and business director for KR Group, commented, “Having strong roots in the Macduff area, we are absolutely thrilled to be part of this project at the heart of the community. The extension’s design is both innovative and exciting, and we’re confident it will enhance the town and attract more visitors.”
