Case study

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

»Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp lower part of Broad Street in Peterhead will be redeveloped as a destination for culture. »Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp focal point will be the derelict B-listed Arbuthnot House, which will be restored and developed into a modern museum, library and culture hub. »Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp 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

»Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp 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:

»Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp 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.

»Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp 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

»Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp 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. »Ê¹ÚÌåÓýapp package of projects will ensure the long-term future of facilities and celebrate the areas relationship with the sea.

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Published 23 October 2023