V&A the ‘key to unlocking Dundee’s new-found international fame’

Opening: Council leader says city must grasp opportunity with both hands

Dundee’s new V&A museum has been the “key to unlocking the city’s newfound international fame” according to council leader John Alexander.

With just 100 days left until the £80 million architectural marvel opens, the city is gearing up to welcome around 500,000 extra visitors every year.

The waterfront museum, created by the designer of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics stadium, Kengo Kuma, has brought the gaze of the world upon the city due to its other-worldly design.

In the past 12 months the city has appeared in the world’s biggest selling travel guide Lonely Planet, as well as US publications The Wall Street Journal, Conde Nast Traveller, Bloomberg and the Los Angeles Times.

Mr Alexander says the exposure has served to highlight what those living here already know — that Dundee is a “cracking city in a stunning location”.

“In 100 days, the world’s gaze will be upon Dundee for the opening and that opportunity is one which we must grasp with both hands,” he said.

“The city’s confidence and that of Dundonians generally is reaching new heights and there is a clear and evident sense of pride with Dundee’s new found international fame. The V&A has been key to unlocking that and in creating the buzz that now exists across the region.”

Dundee waterfront will host a special event to mark the opening of the V&A, on September 15.

The V&A takes pride of place at Dundee waterfront. The acclaimed work of architect Kengo Kuma, is part of a £1bn transformation of the area.