Aberdeenshire’s coastal towns given £20 million culture boost (Levelling Up Fund 2)
£20 million from the Levelling Up Fund will transform two cultural facilities along the coast of North East Scotland.
Peterhead Culture Quarter
The lower part of Broad Street in Peterhead will be redeveloped as a destination for culture. The focal point will be the derelict B-listed Arbuthnot House, which will be restored and developed into a modern museum, library and culture hub. The building’s former walled garden will be transformed into a new public green space.
Funding will support the following works:
- renovation of the mansion house, restoring its original features and character
- a new extension offering panoramic views over the harbour
- new community facilities
The former Arbuthnot Museum and Library will be renamed to reflect the close connections with Scottish-American steel entrepreneur, Andrew Carnegie, who helped fund construction of the original building.
Aberdeenshire Council Leader Cllr Gillian Owen said:
The creation of a cultural quarter will ignite new energy and opportunities and will instil a deeper perception of culture, heritage and sense of place within the town and the wider region.
The restoration and transformation of Arbuthnot House and the Arbuthnot Museum and Library is part of the wider strategic programme for Broad Street.
Macduff Marine Aquarium
The Marine Aquarium in Macduff is an award-winning attraction, cherished by the local community. It provides an important educational role for local schools and the wider population. Currently, the Aquarium is restricted by a lack of space for learning and hospitality.
Funding will support the following improvements:
- a two-storey extension overlooking the coast
- external revamp of the building
- a new space for education and exhibits, including the creation of a lobster hatchery
- a new café and restaurant
- new connections between the coastal walking trail and local heritage sites such as Macduff Harbour
Deputy Leader Cllr Anne Stirling added:
Macduff Marine Aquarium is a cherished visitor attraction and valued natural heritage resource. The package of projects will ensure the long-term future of facilities and celebrate the areas relationship with the sea.
Find out more about Levelling Up