AN HISTORIC building that was dismantled stone by stone after being saved from the bulldozer is now being rebuilt 250 years after initial work on the structure first began.

Described as one of the most remarkable heritage projects in Britain by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE), the original Georgian Botanic Cottage has been transported from its first home at Leith Walk to the current Inverleith garden site.

The original stones dating back to 1764 are now to be put together again using traditional building techniques.

Once a key centre of the Scottish Enlightenment, its £1.6 million rebuild will provide a place of learning for young scientists and horticulturists when it opens late next year.

Designed by John Adam and extended by James Craig - who was responsible for the layout of Edinburgh's New Town - the Botanic Cottage was the centrepiece of RBGE's forerunner garden in the latter part of the 1700s.

There, Professor John Hope, a botanist of international renown and a leading character in the Enlightenment, taught students about the emerging science of botany.

It was last used as a premises by a car hire firm. RBGE moved to its current site in the early 1820s.

An action group and a trust was formed by residents to raise the funds and a Heritage Lottery Grant was secured. RBGE Regius Keeper Simon Milne said: "Once again this fine building will have a vital role to play in education, horticulture and botany, to the benefit of individuals, communities and the nation - a place where heritage, culture, science and sustainable living will come together."