Fairhurst has been appointed by Aberdeenshire Council as the Civil and Structural Engineers for the ambitious redevelopment of Macduff Aquarium. This multi-million-pound project, expected to be completed by late 2026, will feature a design that draws inspiration from Macduff’s coastal location and its rich boat-building heritage. The proposed scheme aims to enhance the aquarium’s visual appeal and functionality, creating a landmark structure that reflects the town’s maritime history.
Existing Macduff Aquarium building
The distinctive round aquarium building will be expanded to provide increased display and activity space, along with a café-restaurant on the second floor offering magnificent views over the Moray Firth and into the central kelp tank. Exhibits will be upgraded with enhanced features and interpretation to elevate the visitor experience.
Proposed building model
Fairhurst’s first-hand knowledge of the existing building provided crucial expertise for this project, ensuring that the new elements were efficiently and seamlessly incorporated into the existing structure. Our design employed a braced steel frame in combination with Slimflor beams and precast hollow core floor units. This innovative structural solution eliminated the need for down stand beams at the first-floor level, effectively addressing the building’s height restrictions. Additionally, this approach minimised disruption to service routes, facilitating a smooth integration between the new construction and the pre-existing framework.
Coastal views of new development
This project provides ecological and educational benefits for the local community to enjoy. Education and conservation are central to the Macduff Aquarium redevelopment, with the expansion including space for a lobster hatchery and a dedicated learning room for hands-on activities and events for learners of all ages. The lobster hatchery will focus on growing lobster larvae for release into the wild, helping to boost local lobster populations and support the area’s fisheries in the future.
View from café terrace
Additionally, a new external landscaped activity area will be created on the east side of the building, featuring children’s play areas and picnic benches. Pathways will be established to connect with existing coastal path networks and the surrounding area. The redevelopment will also include improved biodiversity planting and enhancements to the public realm, such as new paving and surfacing within the car park and external areas.
Fairhurst boasts extensive expertise in refurbishment, with the capability to manage a wide range of projects, from small-scale assessments to large, complex refurbishments. Our depth of experience ensures that every project is executed efficiently and to the highest standard, regardless of its size or complexity. This comprehensive knowledge allows Fairhurst to consistently deliver successful outcomes, tailored to meet the unique demands of each refurbishment project.
