The Dundee V&A museum project now has the backing of both parties with a realistic chance of forming a Scottish Government in May, as Labour added its backing to the SNP’s.
Labour leader Iain Gray has said that the project is “vital” for the future of the city and pledged his support if elected First Minister.
The news will allow project bosses to concentrate their efforts on obtaining the private backing required to bring the plans to fruition safe in the knowledge the publicly funded element is secure.
As predicted exclusively in The Courier, the SNP Government’s culture minister, Fiona Hyslop, has unveiled a package of £4.8m to get work on the ambitious plans under way.
She revealed the cash consisted of £3.56m of capital funding and £1.28m towards running costs and was a “fraction” of what could ultimately be expected.
On Wednesday Mr Gray suggested that a Labour administration would also provide sufficient funding.
He said, “The V&A project is vital to Dundee’s future and will be a major contribution to the Scottish cultural scene.
“It is a sign of this great city’s ambition.”
He added, “If elected First Minister in May I hope to be able to join thousands of local people to celebrate the opening in 2014.”‘Icon’Mr Gray said that the Kenga Kuma-designed building was destined to become a “Scottish icon.”
He added, “But there is much work to be done.
“I will continue pressing the current government to make sure they deliver on this promise.
“After May I hope to be in a position to see the project steam ahead. The city deserves it and Scotland deserves it.”
Labour’s culture spokeswoman Pauline McNeill also welcomed yesterday’s funding announcement.
“The V&A in Dundee has had our support from the very beginning and we hope this funding will allow the project team to make progress,” she said.
“The design of the building promises to transform the city’s waterfront and put Dundee at the forefront of Scotland’s creative sector.
“This is an innovative project which is not only crucial for Dundee’s economy but for Scotland as whole.”