Representing a partnership between National Trust for Scotland and Historic Scotland, and funded by the Scottish Government and the Heritage Lottery Fund, the striking new facility will create a world class visitor attraction on the same site of the existing Bannockburn Heritage Centre at Bannockburn near Stirling.
Designed by award winning Reiach and Hall Architects, construction of the new 1118m² heritage centre aims to change the way visitors experience Bannockburn and establish the battle site as an international landmark by raising the physical presence of the site.
On completion, the centre will house innovative interactive 3D installations including lifelike recreations of battle scenes, a café, staff accommodation and an education room with capacity for up to 60 pupils. Sustainable design elements such as ground source heating will feature throughout the building, ensuring the optimum temperature for visitors whatever the season.
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Externally, Mansell will adopt specialist conservation techniques to preserve and revive the existing grade ‘A listed’ monuments within the site. Mansell has a wealth of expertise in the conservation of heritage buildings having previously upgraded elements of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Stanley Mills Visitor Centre, The Usher Hall and Edinburgh Castle. Substantial landscaping works will also be carried out to the commemorative park including new footways, access roads, lighting, car parking, flora and fauna and new external interpretations.
Callum Leslie regional director in Central Scotland for Mansell, said: "The Battle of Bannockburn is one of the most significant historic events to have taken place in Scotland, so is it fitting that the new centre will open in time to pay tribute to the 700th anniversary. The new visitor centre will also showcase the celebrated architectural, engineering and construction heritage for which Scotland is internationally renowned."
The first phase of works by Mansell will include the demolition of the existing centre, which will remain open to visitors for the 2012 season. The new Bannockburn Heritage Centre is set to open its doors to the public by autumn 2013.
(CD/GK)
