The architect who designed Dundee’s £80.1 million V&A museum says he is confident it will be delivered on time.
Speaking at a ceremony to mark the beginning of construction work, Kengo Kuma said spiralling budgets happened “everywhere in the world” and that design compromises were “necessary” in every project.
Mr Kuma visited the site for a ground-breaking ceremony along with Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop and representatives of V&A Dundee, Dundee City Council and BAM Construction.
The building is expected to be completed in December 2017, with an estimated opening date of June 2018.
Speaking on the project’s budget rocketing to almost double its original estimate, the Japanese architect said: “These kind of things happen everywhere in the world and the developer and construction business is very complex.
“For many projects, I see this kind of thing happen. But the important thing is to never give up, try to find the best solution and we can finally keep our philosophy of the project and the original strength of the project.
“Many reasons have come together to make the cost higher. We tried to find the most reasonable solution for everyone.”
The new building was moved back further inland instead of being built out over the Tay, as originally had been planned.
Mr Kuma said: “The new position is closer to the city and the approach is easier people can walk around the building all the way.
“With every project some compromises are necessary and the architects should be as flexible as possible.
“I am very happy and excited to have this day after five years, when we were selected as the architects.
“Today I saw the site and I was very impressed with the transformation that has now started.”
Mr Kuma added: “It’s always a great pleasure to visit Scotland, a country I love very much.
“When I first arrived for the competition site visit in 2010, Dundee was a very different place.
“Already you can see the connection between the beautiful waterfront setting, the environment and the city is so much stronger.
“We are delighted that our vision for the V&A Dundee building, which was originally inspired by the breathtaking natural setting, is now starting to take physical shape, creating a real sense of place.
“We look forward to forging even closer links between the people and cultures of Japan and Scotland over the coming years as we create our first British building.”