Aberdeen Art Gallery redevelopment gets under way

The keys to Aberdeen Art Gallery have been formally handed over to contractors McLaughlin and Harvey of Belfast with work now under way on the £30million redevelopment.

The redevelopment will see the transformation of the Art Gallery, Cowdray Hall and Memorial Hall through significant investment in the fabric of the buildings, new exhibition and display galleries and improved facilities for visitors. 

The project also involves the creation of new educational facilities to create opportunities for all to learn more about the arts, and the planned sensitive upgrading of the Cowdray Hall will create a fine new performance space for audiences and performers.

The Memorial Hall will also be carefully treated to reflect both its role as a space for quiet contemplation and as a civic space to honour the sacrifices made on behalf of the community.

The programme for the construction and fit-out works to the Art Gallery and Cowdray Hall will enable the buildings to re-open in 2017.

Aberdeen City Council’s Deputy Leader Councillor Marie Boulton said:  “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to achieve something really special for Aberdeen and by rejuvenating and improving these much loved buildings, we will create a world-class cultural centre which will celebrate art and music for all.”
To learn more about the project visit the Hoskins Architects website and the project blog at www.inspiringartandmusic.tumblr.com