Historic Scotland’s Engine Shed project in Forthside, Stirling, will see the transformation of an unused building into an education centre for building conservation in Scotland.
The construction phase is due to be complete by summer 2016.
Scotland has a shortage of adequately skilled traditional contractors within the construction industry and needs an estimated 5,000 additional skilled workers to meet this demand.
Historic Scotland director of conservation David Mitchell said: “The Engine Shed is set to become a leading hub for building conservation on both a national and international level. Our aspiration is to create a place that anyone with an interest in traditional buildings, skills and materials will be able to enjoy. Our cutting edge science and digital documentation work will mix with centuries old skills, demonstrating that both have a role to play in the future. A wide range of education and training will be offered from a new postgraduate level qualification in technical conservation to activities for the next generation of conservation enthusiasts.
“We want to demonstrate the benefits of traditional forms of construction and their continued potential for economic growth and we’re pleased that Esh Border Construction will be working with us over the coming year, helping to deliver the Engine Shed project.”
Esh Border construction director John Moore said: “This is a really exciting project for Esh Border Construction to be involved in and is exactly the kind of challenge we love to take on. There is a massive emphasis here on economic and regeneration objectives, which goes hand-in-hand with Esh Border’s focus of adding value in the communities where we operate.
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“Furthermore, we have been energised by the enthusiasm that has been shown by Historic Scotland in bringing the Engine Shed to fruition and hope to maintain that momentum throughout its construction, helping to fully realise its education and outreach ambitions.
“We have no doubt that the centre will excel as an inspiring place of learning for local residents and visitors, that will serve to celebrate and preserve Scotland’s rich built heritage, and we are very proud to be part of it.”
Historic Environment Scotland has been established as the new body to investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment, which comes into effect on 1st October 2015. It replaces both Historic Scotland and the Royal Commission on Ancient & Historic Monuments Scotland (RCAHMS).
Esh Group acquired Border Construction last year and rebranded it as Esh Border Construction.
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