The UK government has announced Levelling-Up funding of £20 million for the transformation of two cultural facilities in Aberdeenshire, on the North East coast of Scotland.

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.

In the second project, the Marine Aquarium in Macduff will undergo a number of improvement works.

These include:

• 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."