The ongoing revival of the Millport Field Studies Centre reached a major milestone on Wednesday 1 July, just two years ago the facility was temporarily closed with its future uncertain.

But the educational and research base – used primarily for marine science field study and training - is now thriving following major investment from North Ayrshire Council, the Scottish Government and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The centre has been transformed with major investment boosting the expansion of the centre – and Wednesday celebrates the completion of phase one of the development.

At Wednesday’s opening, local councillors were joined by MSP Margaret Burgess, cabinet minister for housing and welfare, and guests from the other partner agencies at the official opening.

A new accommodation building with 32 twin en-suite rooms, a 150-seat lecture theatre and teaching laboratory/teaching room have been built, while a car park and access roads have been completed.

Also included in the work is an environmentally friendly biomass district heating system, which will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the centre.

The total cost of phase one is just over £3 million, and North Ayrshire Council have supplied half of the funds.

The redevelopment of FSC Millport will deliver an increase in turnover of around £1 million, and provide 20 FTE jobs by 2018, and over 8,000 visitor bed nights to the centre each year.

FSC is an environmental education charity which took over the station from the University of London.

To find out more about FSC Millport, please visit www.field-studies-council.org/millport or contact 01475 530581 * The Field Studies Centre has arranged a ‘Cumbrae Bio-blitz’ on 25-26 July, and is appealing for members of the public to help.

Daniel Moncrieff, Head of the Field Studies Centre, said: “Help us record as many species as possible in 24 hours and learn about the fantastic wildlife resident on the island. Experts will be on hand to help with the identification from 4pm on Saturday 25 July until 4pm on Sunday July 26.”