The proposal to move V&A at Dundee inland has been greeted with mixed reactions.
While some critics have branded the move ”disappointing” others saw it as ”commonsense” against the backdrop of the economic climate.
Philip Long, director of the V&A at Dundee, said the look of the building will be unaffected and will retain all elements of Kengo Kuma’s original design but the proposal to move the museum inland, closer to the Discovery, will ensure it will be delivered on time and on budget.
The Scottish Government reaffirmed its support for the project.
A spokeswoman said: ”The Scottish Government remains committed to the V&A at Dundee, which is clearly a significant project for the city and the whole of Scotland.
”It is vital that it is properly planned and costed before construction begins.
”As the project board and all those involved in the project delivery have made clear, the iconic design of the building and its impact on waterfront regeneration is at the heart of their new proposals.
”The allocation of more than £18 million Scottish Government funding is an expression of our confidence in this project.”
Lochee councillor Tom Ferguson also hailed the proposal as good sense.
He said: ”There is a hint of commonsense project planning with this latest development. I had my doubts months ago regarding the overhanging design which would have added considerable cost.
”There is an element of considered responsibility given the economic strictures for the foreseeable future. This building will be basically the same iconic design.”
West End councillor Fraser Macpherson, however, said he needed assurance that the integrity of the design would remain intact.
He said: ”I’ve today written to the director of city development seeking further information about what is being proposed.
”What would concern me would be if the change had been made purely to save money and if the visionary elements of the design had been lost.”
He added: ”Kengo Kuma’s design was a pretty inspired choice and I would like to make sure none of the vision is lost.”