EXTERNAL building works are now completed on the major revamp of Macduff Aquarium, Aberdeenshire Council has confirmed.
The project is being led by Ogilvie Construction with KR Group handling the cladding and steelworks.
With external building works now complete, attention is focused on the interior of the building where the aquarium’s new spaces are taking shape. Mechanical and electrical installations are well advanced, including modern air handling systems designed to improve energy efficiency and create a more sustainable operating environment for the future.
Internal rooms and exhibit spaces are being finished, while new aquarium tanks are now in place. The aquarium team is working closely with specialist exhibit designers to develop the look, feel and interpretation of the displays.
Large-scale wall graphics, immersive theming and a range of interactive elements will help tell the story of the Moray Firth coastal and marine environment in ‘engaging and accessible’ ways.
Among the new additions will be a freshwater display and feature on Atlantic salmon. This has been made possible in part thanks to a generous donation from the Friends of Macduff Aquarium.
A major phase of work begins this week on the central main kelp tank. The tank has been drained down to allow some refurbishment works to take place, with fish temporarily relocated to specialist holding systems. As part of this process, the aquarium’s conger eels have been released back into the sea allowing them to complete their natural lifecycle by migrating to the waters off the Azores to breed.
Outside the building, landscaping works are also progressing. The surrounding area is being transformed into a coastal themed outdoor space, with dune formations, play features, and planting designed to reflect the local environment. Coastal wildflowers and marram grass will be introduced to enhance biodiversity.
While there is still plenty of work to be done, the project is moving forward smoothly, with a target opening planned for late summer, the council said.
