Plans for £5.5m National Marine Centre in East Lothian revealed

Plans for a new £5.5m National Marine Centre in North Berwick have been revealed today.

The development will be based at the current Seabird Centre in North Berwick.

The proposals include an education centre, a cafe, exhibition space and a 360 degree observatory. It will offer visitors the chance to explore sea animals above and below the waves by providing a national hub to increase understanding of Scotland's wildlife.

"Under the surface of the seas is a hidden and very special world that we want to reveal..."

Grace Martin, Project Director, said: "The Scottish Seabird Centre currently offers visitors an opportunity to engage with nature in a sustainable way. As a conservation and education charity, we welcome 4,000 school children a year and led projects.

"As we develop the plan we believe it is essential to get ideas, feedback and comments from as many people possible to ensure the new attraction is one that is based on collaboration and partnership working from the ground up. Our vision is to create a centre that is of national significance and one that the local community is proud of."

Professor Baxter, from Scottish Natural Heritage, said: "Under the surfaces of the seas is a hidden and very special world that we want to reveal and bring to life, for people of all ages, in exciting and engaging ways."

The plans will now go to public consultation but if all goes to plan it will open in 2020.