A new aquaculture research facility at the University of Stirling is set to boost productivity and create jobs.

The National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub (NATIH) has reached the final phase of construction.

The state-of-the-art centre is funded by a £17 million UK Government investment through the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal and a £1 million grant from the Wolfson Foundation.

Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray MP said: "I welcome the progress being made to deliver this pioneering aquaculture project.

"It is a great example of collaboration to find innovative solutions for boosting productivity, creating jobs and improving sustainability in the sector in Scotland and beyond."

The facility will be part of the University of Stirling's Institute of Aquaculture (IoA), the UK's 'leading aquaculture' research centre.

Artist's impression of NATIHArtist's impression of NATIH (Image: University of Stirling) This includes a large-scale marine facility at Machrihanish in Kintyre and a freshwater facility at Buckieburn near Denny.

Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Stirling, said: "The new National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub will create the UK’s leading innovation community for sustainable aquatic food production.

"The facility is also the catalyst for the creation of a range of high value, skilled jobs and training opportunities in the blue economy space."

The Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal is a £90.2 million investment from the UK Government and Scottish Government in innovation and infrastructure that will drive inclusive economic growth throughout the region.

Regional partners, including Clackmannanshire Council, Stirling Council and the University of Stirling, will invest up to £123.8 million, resulting in a Deal worth more than £214 million, to be delivered over 10 to 15 years.

Councillor Gerry McGarvey, depute leader of Stirling Council, said: "This fantastic aquaculture research facility underlines the strength of the City Region Deal partnership between Stirling Council, Clackmannanshire Council and the University of Stirling.

"The new research hub will be a great addition to our region and will further enhance our community and business links throughout Scotland, the UK and the rest of the world."

Robertson Construction, the firm behind the development, completed the foundations and steel frame of NATIH this week.

They will now begin a fit out in the coming months.

David Cairns, regional managing director at Robertson Construction Central East, said: "The creation of the innovation hub puts the University of Stirling at the forefront of sustainable aquaculture research, driving economic growth and opening new opportunities in the area."