A CHARLES Rennie Mackintosh masterpiece in Helensburgh is to open a new community hub next weekend to give visitors the chance to see the latest progress in its refurbishment.

The Hill House, which is currently undergoing conservation work with a giant steel mesh box being put in place around it, will welcome members of the public to hear all about the National Trust for Scotland’s pioneering project.

The new hub opens on Saturday, February 23 and people are being encouraged to come along and find out more.

Richard Williams, general manager for Glasgow and the west, said: “The ‘Box’ is a really exciting project, and we know there are lots of questions about how it will help protect the Hill House for future generations.

“Pop into the hub and the team will be able to explain why this pioneering project is so important for Scotland’s heritage.”

READ MORE: Helensburgh recruitment fair as NTS seeks Hill House team members.

The community hub is open on: Saturday, February 23 – 10am until noon, Saturday, March 9 - 10am until noon, Saturday, March 23 – 10am until noon, Saturday, April 6 – 10am until noon.

The Hill House is being covered with a unique steel mesh shelter, known as the Box, to protect it from the elements and halt the impact of more than 100 years of water penetration.

Work commenced onsite in November and the steel frame of the structure is now being erected.

READ MORE: Giant crane starts work on £4.5m scheme to protect Hill House in Helensburgh.

As well as protecting the building from the weather, the ‘Box’ will give visitors the chance to get a new perspective on the Hill House from elevated walkways looping around the building and see conservation work in action.

It is due to open to the public in spring.