The second phase of the Comhairle nan Eilean Siar project includes the new Museum and Archive building at the venue, as well as the creation of a glass-roofed courtyard café area and toilet facilities.

The public rooms on the ground floor of the castle will also be fully restored, while a new visitor car park will be created and associated landscaping works.

Simpson & Brown Architects has led the conservation of the A-listed Lewis landmark, while Malcolm Fraser Architects have overseen the new build extension connected to the castle by a long gallery and glass roofed courtyard –offering improved facilities including a café, shop and gallery space.

To date, the museum and archive works have been completed, with the fit-out contract for the museum exhibitions expected to start on site in early March. Completion of the Phase 2 works is anticipated by early next month.

It is thought the museum and archive and the ground floor rooms of the Castle will be completed this summer, with full public opening expected in October.