The construction comprises a steel frame structure over two levels providing café, retail and exhibition facilities. Entry will be free to visitors who can learn about the role played by engineers who brought hydro power to Scotland over 70 years ago.

SSE project manager, Iain Muir, said: “We are very excited to have a contractor of the quality of CCG on board to deliver this project for SSE. CCG are known for their work for the Commonwealth Games and we are confident they will bring their rigorous approach and desire to work in tandem with the local community to this project. The first earth has been moved so it is a landmark moment for us and the team. The new visitor centre is very important to us because SSE’s history is Scotland’s history. Hydro electricity improved the lives of ordinary people living in the north of Scotland and we have a responsibility to preserve and promote the remarkable stories from that time.”

CCG expect to be on site for a year’s duration allowing the new multi-purpose facility to open its doors in October 2016.