Lock 16 Phase 2
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Summary
Scotland’s first centre of excellence for canals and traditional skills
The transformation of the former AG Barr Irn-Bru factory at Lock 16 is well underway, marking a major milestone in Scotland’s ambition to champion traditional skills and canal heritage.
Following Robertson Construction Central East’s successful delivery of Phase 1 in 2021, where the building was fully reclad, 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. 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. ASHP and a large number of PV roof panels will generate sufficient energy for the new development.
Two-phase
project
2027
completion
EV
charging
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 Two outdated single storey buildings are being demolished to make way for a new front of house car park, complete with EV charging points and futureproofing for additional capacity. To the rear, excavation works will prepare the ground for a new service yard, accommodating plant, skips and essential storage. A limited but considered landscaped area will soften the site’s industrial heritage.
A major milestone for Scotland’s skills investment
The project is more than a construction programme it’s a strategic investment in Scotland’s future. Now formally approved by the UK and Scottish Governments and Falkirk Council, the centre has become the second initiative within the £100 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal to move forward. With £4 million of Scottish Government capital funding, the facility will become the country’s largest dedicated space for heritage and traditional skills training.
Once complete, the centre will play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of craftspeople, supporting pathways into heritage careers and safeguarding the specialist skills needed to protect Scotland’s historic environment.
“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.”
