The Bill McLaren Foundation has confirmed plans for the creation of a multi-million pound world rugby museum and educational resource in Hawick, Scotland.

Established in March 2010, the charity aims to commemorate the life of the former Scottish-born rugby commentator and is hoping to open the attraction within the next three years. The Bill McLaren Centre of World Rugby will look to explore the history of rugby union - as much as possible - using the voice of McLaren, who died in 2010.

BBC Scotland and Scottish Borders Council have backed the proposals, which will also see the venue provide opportunities for young people to learn teaching and journalism skills. Linda Lawson, daughter of the late commentator, said: "Our focus to date has been on developing the sport of Rugby Union and encouraging sporting opportunities for young people.

"The centre is a very exciting project, the progress on which has come far faster than we anticipated." Foundation chair Malcolm Murray added: "This is just the beginning of what is going to be a very challenging project. We need to source substantial funds - but I am confident we can make it happen."

The scheme is expected to cost £3-4m.