The first signs of construction at Dundee’s landmark Victoria and Albert Museum could take up to two years to appear, it has been revealed.
Moira Gemmill is director of projects, design and estate with the V&A and she believes that logistical work due to the size and ambition of the project could mean that Dundonians have to wait a little longer than expected to see the first signs of the iconic structure.
The £45 million project-the heart of a plan to regenerate Dundee’s waterfront-has been the subject of much excitement among the local population and plans remain very much on schedule. However, Mrs Gemmill told The Courier nothing could be done to speed up the construction process, with the Japanese-designed building still expected to open its doors by the end of 2014 or early 2015.
When asked how long the public may have to wait for visible signs of construction, Mrs Gemmill said, “I think it will probably be about two years before we see anything. To co-ordinate the balance of engineers, architects and fitters takes time to work out.
“It’s both the scale and the design of the building. It’s a very complex design, as all buildings are, and I think that there is an assumption that the model is there and that everything is complete. But the costing and engineering process takes that long.”
Although there may be disappointment that signs of the structure will not appear for some time, at a press conference at Dundee University’s Duncan of Jordanstone building on Wednesday morning
Mrs Gemmill promised that the finished project would be worth the wait. Describing the plans as “stunning” she added, “The V&A is about good design having a positive impact on people’s lives and this building embodies that ethos.”McManus exhibitTo give members of the public a small taste of what to expect when the museum opens its doors, plans were revealed to host current V&A exhibits at The McManus from November onwards.
It was at Wednesday’s briefing that culture minister Fiona Hyslop confirmed The Courier’s exclusive announcement of an injection of £4.8 million from the Scottish Government.
Stating that Holyrood remained firmly behind the V&A project, she said, “This is quite an opportunity to develop Dundee’s reputation as a centre of creative industries.
“The V&A will be a landmark building… and I’m confident that the support provided is a sound base to allow the project to proceed.”
The cash boost means that partners in the project-Abertay and Dundee Universities, Dundee City Council, Scottish Enterprise and the V&A itself-can now undertake fund-raising to meet the construction costs. The museum is expected to create in the region of 900 jobs and contribute around £5 million to the local economy.