Dundee-based architects Nicoll Russell Studios (NRS) has been awarded a £1m contract to design a new visitor centre, which is part of the £41m Helix Project near Falkirk, Scotland.

The design firm has been chosen following a Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland-managed competition and tender process to create a "functional, yet visionary" facility.

NRS will also design an internal public space to be located within a 30m (98ft)-high Kelpie head - a mythical Scottish water horse - that has been created by sculptor Andy Scott.

The Helix Project is designed to transform a 300-hectare (741-acre) site between the towns of Falkirk and Grangemouth, which will boast a central park, a lagoon and woodland areas.

It is being led by the Helix Trust in collaboration with Falkirk Council, British Waterways Scotland and Central Scotland Forest Trust. The Big Lottery Fund has contributed £25m.

NRS partner Andy Baxter said: "Winning this design competition against an international field is a superb accolade and we are delighted with the outcome.

"It reinforces the profile of our practice, continuing a string of success across the UK and we are looking forward to seeing the designs move from the drawing board into reality."

Details: www.thehelix.co.uk