Banker donates £1m to fund for Burrell renovations
SCOTS banker Sir Angus Grossart has given £1 million to the restoration of one of the nation’s leading museums.
Sir Angus, a businessman and banker, has given the money to the project to re-develop the Burrell Collection in Glasgow.
He is also the chairman of the Burrell Renaissance, the team leading fundraising for the revamp of the museum, in the city’s south side.
Thus far, more than 125 companies, trusts and foundations, and individuals have pledged financial support to the £66m project to redevelop the building, which is currently closed to the public, and still needs to raise £3m.
Sir Angus, whose high-profile positions in the past have included being chair of the National Galleries of Scotland, chair of the Fine Art Society, vice-chairman of the Royal Bank of Scotland, among others, said: “Sir William’s gift is an international flagship for Glasgow.
“Much has moved on since the initial priority of creating a home for the Collection.
“The Burrell Collection now needs a real renaissance which will place the true significance of Sir William’s legacy and Collection within the international league where it should be set.
“The challenge is highly ambitious, but what a privilege it is for our generation to be asked to rise to that call and to take forward this great inheritance.”
He added: “Glasgow has been defined by international aspirations and cultural reach.
“Sir William entrusted his life’s work to the city he called home.
“Mindful always of his wishes, we are seeking to secure much wider recognition of his vision and achievements.
“We still have £3m to raise and we hope more people will help us and support this great opportunity.”
Councillor David Mcdonald, chair of Glasgow Life, which runs the city’s museums and galleries, said: “This very generous gift from Sir Angus, along with his valued ongoing support and advocacy, will ensure that legacy will be appreciated for generations to come.”
James Robinson, director of Burrell Renaissance, said: “Sir Angus’s commitment to the project as Chair of the Burrell Renaissance has shaped its ambition and strategy from the outset. “