Work on a £1.5 million project to transform a derelict building in Looe will start today.

The 19th century former Sardine Factory on the quayside in West Looe will be demolished, and a new building resembling the original created in its place.

The new Sardine Factory will house an outward-bound centre, a training restaurant, a museum, and a working fishermen’s stores.

The project has been made possible with £1.1 million in Coastal Communities funding, in addition to grants from the Environment Agency and the Marine Management Organisation.

The new building is anticipated to be complete by July 2018.

Behind the plans are the Looe Harbour Commissioners, who say they have done as much as possible to ensure that  the minimum of disruption is caused to businesses and residents during the works.

‘We believe that the Sardine Factory redevelopment will be a huge asset for the town,’ said a LHC spokesperson.

‘This project will help to ensure that Looe remains a thriving coastal community and popular tourist destination with a promising future.’