The multi-million pound renovation of Aberdeen Art Gallery reached new heights yesterday as a topping out ceremony took place on the building’s new roof.
Council leader Jenny Laing was joined by her deputy Marie Boulton and Lord Provost George Adam to mark the building work reaching its highest point.
The £30million renovation, which council chiefs have vowed will make the attraction among the “best regional galleries in the world”, has been funded by £10million from the authority and £10million from the Heritage Lottery Fund, with a fundraising campaign ongoing for the remaining cash.
In March, the building was covered in a shroud urging more donations and further support has come from recruiting renowned north-east percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie to be the face of the campaign.
Residents should see work progress quickly on the renovation with massive roof lights installed within the next few weeks before copper plates are put on the side of the building.
It will then be made completely wind and water tight, before internal works are carried out and the art works are finally moved into place.
The A-listed building is scheduled to re-open next winter.
Mrs Laing said the new works would allow international exhibitions to come to the Granite City on a more regular basis.
She said: “We have said right from the beginning that we wanted this to be viewed as the city’s gallery that will allow us to show the city’s cultural impact to the best effect.
“I truly believe that when the works are finished this will be a regional gallery with an international status.”
The gallery was opened in 1885, partly funded through public donations.
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.
Mrs Boulton, who leads the 25-year city centre masterplan, said the works would boost the cultural reputation of the city.
She said: “I think not only will it provide an extra incentive to tourists, who are increasingly seeing us as a hidden northern gem, but will be a hub for creative people across the north allowing them to stay in the city to pursue their careers.”
Heritage Lottery Fund’s manager for Scotland, Lucy Casot said: “Today marks a major milestone as we begin to see for ourselves Aberdeen’s vision of a world-class cultural centre take shape.”
Those wishing to support the project can visit www.aagm.co.uk/donate or phone 01224 523670.
Donations can also be made by SMS by texting AAGM001 to 70970 to donate £5 and AAGM001 to 70191 to donate £10.
Donors can also send a cheque, made payable to Aberdeen Art Gallery and Museums Development Trust, to: Inspiring Art and Music Campaign, Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Shiprow, Aberdeen, AB11 5BY.
Alternatively, call 01224 523670.
