Funded by a £3.8 million National Lottery grant, the new learning and visitor resource is the first facility of its kind in the world combining research, education and public access. It will serve as the national conservation hub, using world-leading innovation to bring built heritage to life through technology and hands-on activities while ensuring the knowledge, skills and materials are available to look after Scotland’s 450,000 traditional buildings.

[quote=Fiona Hyslop]“The new Engine Shed will couple state-of-the-art technology and world-leading innovation with our historic building traditions"[/quote]

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop said: “The new Engine Shed will couple state-of-the-art technology and world-leading innovation with our historic building traditions, inspiring a new generation to learn the traditional skills and use the authentic materials that will help to keep Scotland’s history alive.

“The Scottish Government has proudly supported this ambitious project since its very beginning, underlining the importance we place on protecting, preserving and promoting our rich history, heritage and built environment.

“I am particularly pleased to open the Engine Shed during Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. The centre will help to provide a lasting legacy for the year, increasing knowledge and understanding of the values of our precious historic environment.” 

Inspiring a new generation

Located in Stirling, The Engine Shed will be home to Historic Environment Scotland’s building conservation research and education facility, which will share its world class expertise with national and international partners. With interactive exhibits, a 4K 3D auditorium and augmented reality experiences, the Engine Shed aims to spark the public’s passion and interest with Scotland’s historic environment and inspire a new generation to be interested in traditional buildings.

Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, Lucy Casot, said: “What is being done at the Engine Shed is leading the way, not just in Scotland but in the UK. We need people with traditional building skills to look after our heritage. Without them, historic buildings, whether it’s the local bank or a national monument, will crumble. Thanks to players of the National Lottery, we have been able to support this centre of excellence which will ensure that a new generation is equipped with the skills to care for the fabric of our nation.”

Get involved

People across Scotland are being invited to visit the Engine Shed for a summer programme as part of Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. Workshops include creating Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired pieces similar to those on temporary display at the Engine Shed, which were recovered from the fire that engulfed the Glasgow School of Art in 2014.

For further information please visit the Engine Shed website.