Construction work is finally set to commence on the V&A Museum of Design in Dundee.

The news comes following the signing of a construction contract between Dundee City Council and BAM Construction Ltd.

The ambitious project has been subject to controversy of late; last month it was revealed that initial projected costs for the scheme had almost doubled, from £45m to £80m. It has since received additional funding for the work from a number of sources.

With a contract now signed, it is hoped that work will commence on site next month (March), with the main building being completed by the end of 2017. An anticipated opening date to the public has been given of before June 2018.

Welcoming the announcement, Councillor Ken Guild, Administration Leader at Dundee City Council, said: "I am delighted that work to create a world-class museum and visitor centre will start soon at the heart of our central waterfront.

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"This project will help to attract further investment into the city and we are already experiencing unprecedented levels of investor interest in Dundee.

"Construction of V&A Dundee will give our economy a significant boost and help to create hundreds of jobs. The building project itself will also bring considerable attention to Dundee as the vision of architect Kengo Kuma takes shape.

"We are already enjoying the benefits of the recent award of UNESCO City of Design status, which reflects our growing international reputation."

Doug Keillor, Regional Director of BAM Construction in Scotland, added: "This is the most unique construction project that my team have ever been involved in, both in architectural vision and in the way it will be built.

"It's challenging, but in a good way. Watching it take shape over the next few years using a combination of local, national and international expertise, will be very satisfying."

Philip Long, Director of V&A Dundee, commented: "This is a thrilling moment in the development of V&A Dundee. It's very important to acknowledge all the work done and contributions made over the last years and months that has led to the signing of this contract.

"As a result, everybody will soon be able to see work begin on the construction of this major new museum at the heart of Dundee's Waterfront."

(JP/CD)