Lock 16 Phase 2
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Summary
A Scottish first – investing in heritage skills for the future
The transformation of the former AG Barr Irn-Bru factory at Lock 16 on the Forth & Clyde Canal is well underway, marking a major milestone in Scotland’s ambition to champion traditional skills and canal heritage.
After Robertson successfully delivered Phase 1 in 2021, fully recladding the building, with new roof and envelope upgrades, the project has now entered its exciting second phase: creating Scotland’s first Centre of Excellence for Canals and Traditional Skills.
This next chapter, delivered in partnership with Scottish Canals and Historic Environment Scotland (HES), will breathe new life into the 1960s steel portal frame warehouse.
Two-phase
project
2027
completion
EV
charging
Modern workshops and facilities for hands-on training
Inside, the building will be reimagined into two distinct zones. A generous workshop area will house dedicated workspaces for both Scottish Canals and HES, each with its own welfare facilities to support hands-on training and craft development.
Alongside this, we are constructing modern offices, breakout spaces, classrooms, meeting rooms, and training suites. Air source heat pumps and a large number of solar PV roof panels will generate plenty of renewable energy.
Upgrading external spaces for function, flexibility and sustainability
Externally, the site is undergoing a thoughtful reshaping.
Two outdated single-storey buildings are being demolished to make way for a new car park, complete with EV charging points and future-proofing for additional capacity.
To the rear, excavation works will prepare the ground for a new service yard, accommodating plant, skips and essential storage. A considered landscaped area will soften the site’s industrial heritage.
A strategic investment in skills for Scotland’s future
The project is more than a construction programme – it’s a strategic investment in Scotland’s future. After formal approval by the UK and Scottish Governments and Falkirk Council, the centre has become the second initiative within the £100m Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal to move forward. With £4m of Scottish Government capital funding, the facility will become the country’s largest dedicated space for heritage and traditional skills training.
“From concept to commitment this marks the beginning of a new chapter for the former AG Barr Factory and for the industries and people of Falkirk and Grangemouth.”
