Plans for a £10million dolphin watching centre overlooking Aberdeen Harbour have reached a “pivotal” stage as backers await the outcome of a business plan evaluation.
Marine scientist Dr Fiona McIntyre, who is leading the initiative, expects to make a decision on whether to press ahead to seek funding for the proposed visitor and marine education centre at Greyhope Bay within the next six months.
Initially envisaged as a visitor centre with a viewing platform in Torry where dolphins and other marine wildlife are regularly spotted, the project scope has grown to include a restaurant, theatre and interactive exhibit space as well as becoming an international hub for marine research.
“I first had the idea for the Greyhope Bay centre around three years ago when I was visiting the area and realised its potential as a destination particularly as at the time I couldn’t understand why many people had no idea about it,” Ms McIntyre said.
“I’ve worked very closely with Gokay Deveci, an architect with the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture, and we spent about a year developing the concept, which has evolved in to a cultural hub, with a restaurant, theatre and interactive exhibit space and will provide an outstanding leisure facility advancing marine science education.”
Ms McIntyre and her board of directors have appointed an independent consultancy which is currently validating the business case and looking at the potential social and economic benefits of the project.
“The next six months are pivotal for the Greyhope Bay project and will ultimately decide whether or not we proceed,” she said.
Ms McIntyre also recently completed the Elevator Accelerator programme, which aims to fast-track businesses to the next level.
The project, which is being hailed as potential boost for tourism in the city, has been enthusiastically supported by Steve Harris, chief executive of tourist body, VisitAberdeenshire.
Mr Harris, who is also on the board of Greyhope Bay, estimates the project will give the region access to Scotland’s lucrative marine tourism market, estimated to be worth £360million per year.
He said: “Dolphins have long been associated with the north east, and Torry is undoubtedly one of the best places in the country to see them in their natural habitat.
“The Greyhope Bay centre will be a great addition to the area’s tourism offering, and will allow locals and visitors alike the chance to observe and learn about our marine wildlife in greater detail.
“It is estimated that marine tourism was worth £360million to the Scottish economy in 2015, and its continued popularity is certainly seen in Aberdeen: earlier this year, a survey of dolphin spotters revealed that a quarter had specifically visited the region to see our aquatic neighbours.
“Those that visit Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire to see the dolphins on our beautiful coastline will have the opportunity to uncover all that the region has to offer, and the Greyhope Bay centre promises to be a fantastic starting point for their journey of discovery.”