The Field Studies Council have expressed the desire to make the Millport Marine Station into the ‘premier marine teaching location’ in Scotland.

The official opening of the Field Studies Council building took place last Friday as Education secretary Michael Russell performed the honours.

He said: “Since the announcement of the closure in 2012, all of the partners - The Field Studies Council, North Ayrshire Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Scottish Funding Council - have worked tirelessly with us to ensure that this invaluable educational and research facility was not lost.

He added: “Generations of school and university students have been taught at this facility and it is heartening that this excellent work will continue so that many more people can experience the residential classes and unique outdoor activities provided here.” The first phase of refurbishment of the site has already taken place, with plans to plough millions of pounds into the facility over the coming years.

Over the next five years, the new owner plans to refurbish FSC Millport, with the aim of making it the UK’s “premiere marine teaching location”.

Robert Lucas, FSC chief executive, said: “The investment in Millport ensures a new and sustainable future for the centre, building on its international reputation for marine science field teaching.

“We will be using all of our experience to provide exciting outdoor learning opportunities for people of all ages.

“The centre is also ideally located to act as a base for research on the Clyde Basin, and later this year will be hosting a research seminar.” A new accommodation building is to be built by February 2015, costing £2.9m, and further enhancements are planned for the Milliot Building, and a new entrance area and improved aquarium facilities.