The project will involve the restoration and extension of the listed Arbuthnot House in Peterhead. The refurbished building will house both the town's library and a new museum showcasing Aberdeenshire's heritage.
The new museum will feature permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as workshop spaces for learning and participation. The building will also include a café and restaurant, offering stunning views of the harbour.
The project is part of a wider cultural initiative, with the renovation of Macduff Marine Aquarium also underway.
Aberdeenshire Council Leader Cllr Gillian Owen said: "I am really impressed by the designs for the Museum of Aberdeenshire and new Peterhead Library. This truly will be a museum for the whole region, showcasing the inspiring individuals, sensational stories and amazing artefacts that make the north-east unique. This is a major infrastructure project and, while I do acknowledge that the design process has taken us slightly longer than we would have hoped owing to the complexities and restrictive nature of the site, I am delighted to see it progressing and I look forward to works commencing in due course."
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Depute Leader Cllr Anne Stirling added: "This innovative and very ambitious project in the very heart of Peterhead town centre will support the north-east economy through the enhancement of the tourism offering across Aberdeenshire and provide opportunities for businesses which are to be greatly welcomed. I am very impressed with the engagement which has been undertaken with our communities and businesses and the important discussions with our partners and funders which will all help towards establishing this new attraction as centre of excellent in which to display our rich heritage."
Ewan Imrie, Director, Collective Architecture, said: "Arbuthnot House is a listed building of great historical significance to Peterhead and Aberdeenshire. The works will restore this fantastic building to meaningful public use, while its walled garden will be reimagined as a vital, new public space. Our extension design aims to create a landmark that will draw both locals and visitors to Peterhead, celebrating the unique identity and heritage of Aberdeenshire. This will be achieved with sensitivity to the remarkable pink granite townscape of Peterhead, providing stimulus for further regeneration. Together, these elements will establish a family-friendly, inclusive place for everyone to come together."
