Delay hits £30m Aberdeen art gallery

Aberdeen Art Gallery will remain closed for another year after a major delay hit the £30m redevelopment.

The venue had originally been due to open by the end of next month but it is now not expected to open to the public until late 2018 or early 2019.

Aberdeen City Council declined to discuss the reasons behind the delay with a report due to councillors on December 1 on the new work schedule and any potential budget implications.

The gallery, which is to get a new rooftop extension, has a key role the city’s bid to reposition itself as an arts and culture destination. Councillor Marie Boulton, Aberdeen City Council’s culture lead, said the delay was “unacceptable”.

Discussions are now being held with Mclaughlin and Harvey, the main contractor for the job. The firm refused to comment.