Historic Environment Scotland has revealed its new £11 million national building conservation centre, named The Engine Shed, based at Forthside Way, Stirling.
The new learning and visitor resource has been officially opened by Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop and is expected to serve as the national conservation hub that will welcome visitors from 3rd July.
About the centre
The Engine Shed is being built on the former MOD munitions store, adapted to retain much of the original fabric and character of the original building, with sustainability at the heart of the conservation.
The centrepiece of the main space is a large-scale map of Scotland, compiled from high-res satellite images, allowing visitors to access additional information using iPad tablets.
The centre also includes interactive exhibits, a 4K 3D auditorium and augmented reality experiences, in a bid to spark the public’s passion and interest in Scotland’s historic environment.
The Engine Shed will also be home to Historic Environment Scotland’s building conservation research and education facility, which will share its expertise with national and international partners in building conservation.
Events and workshops
Visitors are invited to experience the centre’s summer programme of events designed to encourage a greater understanding of Scotland’s historic buildings and traditional craft skills, as part of Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.
Workshops will include creating pieces inspired by architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s design currently on temporary display at the centre, which were recovered from the fire that affected The Glasgow School of Arts Mackintosh Building in 2014.
Additional information
The Engine Shed will be open from Monday to Saturday, between 10am until 4pm.
Facilities include a shop, wi-fi, as well as a group rest space in the indoor lunch area, which can accommodate up to 35 people.
Group visitors can ask to book the group rest space when organising a visit.
To find out more about the centre, you can visit www.engineshed.org or call 01786-234800.
