Anniversary boost for research centre
AN INTERNATIONALLY recognised research centre celebrated its 50th anniversary in style by unveiling new state- ofthe-art facilities in Acharacle.
Ardtoe Marine Research Facility has received more than £4 million in investment since 2013 when Benchmark Holdings Plc bought the site and added aquaculture to its suite of FAI farms and research facilities. The centre marked the milestone anniversary by opening its doors to members of the public, welcoming locals and past employees to tour the new facilities and learn about Ardtoe’s work supporting Scottish and global aquaculture.
In the evening a céilidh was held in Acharacle Village Hall where photos and memorabilia from across the site’s history were on display. Speaking from the site in Ardtoe, Ruth Layton, Benchmark Holdings co-founder and FAI director, commented: ‘ With the Scottish industry’s ambitious 2020 sustainable production targets, aquaculture is poised to increase its contribution to the Scottish economy and its role in providing jobs in remote and fragile communities. We are proud to be part of and be able to support the communities in which we work.’
Research and trials at Ardtoe will cover a wide variety of marine and freshwater species, including finfish (salmon, wrasse and lumpfish), shellfish and microalgae. The facility will also offer training courses and support services to farmers and producers to help improve welfare and husbandry protocols and practices for key farmed species.