Waterfront transformation of Dundee is well ahead of schedule
A KEY part of the £1 billion project to transform Dundee’s waterfront will be completed by the end of February, months ahead of schedule.
The £100 million Central Waterfront infrastructure plan was originally due to be completed by the end of this summer.
The project includes the creation of Slessor Gardens as well as a new road layout, improved access to the Tay road bridge and preparatory work for the creation of a number of fully-serviced development sites.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who visited the site yesterday, said: “The progress we have seen on this infrastructure work is a testament to good project management and support from the wider local community and businesses.
“Scotland has a proud tradition and enviable global reputation for engineering excellence, built on the skills and innovation of our people, making it an attractive location for business investment.
“The fact that this project is largely supported by local contractors, engineers and apprentices is something we should be proud of.
“I am delighted that the Scottish Government is part of transforming a post-industrial city into a centre for the creative economy with this ground-breaking development.”
Work to regenerate the waterfront is being led by the Scottish Government, Dundee City Council and Scottish Enterprise.
The overall project will create some 7,000 jobs and is said to be well past its halfway point, with more than £600m already invested.
Mr Ken Guild, Dundee City Council leader, said: “We expect more private investment in the project, to the tune of £400 million over the next 10 to 15 years, as the surge in interest we are currently seeing from developers bears fruit.
“That will produce more of the jobs and prosperity we are seeking, and it is pleasing there have already been substantial community benefits from the project.”
The new V&A Museum of Design is one of the flagship projects included in the waterfront’s regeneration.
Its director Philip Long said: “V&A Dundee will be an international centre of design, sitting proudly right at the heart of the waterfront and symbolising the city’s confidence and growing ambition.
“When the museum opens, we will inspire hundreds of thousands of visitors from far and wide with the remarkable story of Scotland’s design heritage.”