Progress update - end July 2008
We are now ten months into construction and visitors will notice from the images below the building taking shape. The new Information Chalet offers up-to-date information about the project to visitors - please come and visit!
The main contractor, Xircon Ltd, are reporting that the project is slightly behind the original Contract Programme. However, following re-programming of critical path items, the project remains set to complete in summer 2009, as planned.
The building (refer to pictures above and below)
A. Much of the base level groundwork is now complete
B. The base walls have been set
C. Most of the main structural columns are in place
D. The roof beams are being fixed in place
E. Progress is being made on the Caithness Stone wall
F. Floor panels are in place and laminated wall panels are being erected
G. The basement has been excavated for the biomass boiler building
The Biodiversity Garden (refer to pictures above)
H. The biodiversity ponds have been marked out
I. Location of the Biodiversity Garden: the planting scheme is being finalised with a feature path incorporating Dutch Red Brick. Plants are being procured and RBGE horticultural staff will soon begin planting the garden.
The interior
RBGE has now approved the finalised Exhibition Drawings from designers Bright 3D. Surplus lumber from trees felled in the Botanics is being assessed as possible material for restaurant furniture. The redesigned shop layout has now been formally approved by RBGE and a buying policy that focuses on sustainable and ethical products is currently being developed.