Building conservation hub opens

A new national building conservation hub combining research, education and visitor attractions has been officially opened at a former munitions depot in Stirling.

The £11 million Engine Shed, based at the old Forthside military compound, will serve as centre of expertise in preserving and restoring Scotland’s historical buildings and ancient monuments.

The centre has been set up to ensure the knowledge, skills and materials are available 0 Jane Ryder: ‘Facility is a wonderful living classroom’ to look after the country’s 450,000 traditional buildings, which make up an important cultural and economic asset.

It is being run by Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the public body that cares for, protects and promotes the country’s built heritage.

The opening of the pioneering new centre has come a year later than planned, after bad weather and contamination from earlier use of the land delayed completion.

HES chair Jane Ryder said: “This world-class facility is a wonderful living classroom with science and technology at its core, demonstrating that innovation can be inspired by the past.”

The hub was opened by culture secretary Fiona Hyslop.