A major project to restore one of Aberdeen’s “most important buildings” will receive a £1.5million boost from the UK Government today.
Chancellor Philip Hammond will announce the cash injection for the Remembrance Hall, within Cowdray Hall, when he delivers the Autumn Statement.
The project is part of the wider £30million Aberdeen Art Gallery revamp.
The Treasury’s award will come from a share of Libor funds, which are raised through fines levied on banks.
Unveiling the funding, Philip Hammond is expected to say: “This is a fantastic project for Aberdeen, and I’m pleased that I have been able to support it.
“It is completely right that the money we’ve collected from banks for fines continues to be put to vital causes all over the country.
“As we’ve seen from remembrance services this month, it is so important to pay tribute to the sacrifices made during the wars, and honour our veterans, which this Hall of Remembrance will do.”
The remembrance hall, a space for contemplation, reflection and commemoration, is part of a the same complex that includes the gallery and Cowdray concert hall.
A focal point for Remembrance Day activities, it is not often used or visited at other times.
But it is hoped the renovations will bring more people through the doors, and help them learn more about the sacrifices of soldiers from the north-east.
One of the main attractions will be a Gallery of Memories on the new first floor balcony, chronicling the stories and memories of people of the north-east relating to conflict.
City council leader Jenny Laing said: “We are delighted to receive this substantial donation towards our Art Gallery redevelopment project. This donation means we are now 25% of the way towards our fundraising total.
“Together with Aberdeen Art Gallery and Cowdray Hall, the Remembrance Hall is one of the city’s most important buildings and it is imperative that we protect and enhance it for future generations.
“When the complex re-opens next winter, the Remembrance Hall will be brought to life as a welcoming place for reflection and contemplation, with new opportunities for learning through digital projections and interactive displays.”
Steve Regulski, chairman of Aberdeen Art Gallery and Museums Development Trust, called the announcement an “enormous boost”.
He added: “Aberdonians should be proud that the significance of our Remembrance Hall is being recognised through this major award.
“We will build on this success and encourage other funding bodies, businesses and individuals to support the fundraising campaign in order to achieve our ultimate goal of £10million.”
The gallery is currently fundraising to drum up £10million for the £30million transformation.
The remaining £20million is being funded by Aberdeen City Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Council chiefs have vowed it will make the attraction among the “best regional galleries in the world”.
Earlier this month, the local authority’s education committee heard that a total of £650,000 had been banked so far.
Sources also confirmed an anonymous donation of £250,000, which – coupled with the money raised through the P&J’s long-running donation drive – brings the total to around the £1million mark.
Among those backing the campaign is renowned north-east percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie.
Partly funded through public donations, the A-listed building first opened its doors in 1885. It is scheduled to reopen next winter.
The current work includes the creation of 21 gallery spaces in place of the existing 11, as well as a community gallery in a new wing at the rear of the building.