THE National Gallery of Ireland has announced that a
?¬20 million refurbishment of the building will be completed over the next three years and lead to the creation of 300 jobs.
The works will include a comprehensive refurbishment of the historic core of the National Gallery – the Dargan and Milltown wings – and the installation of 21st century climate, heating, fire suppression, electrical, lighting and security systems.
The development will represent the largest single refurbishment project of the gallery, which is based in Merrion Square, since it opened in 1864.
The refurbishment will also involve the reopening of Victorian features and spaces within the building previously unseen by the public.
Extra rooms between the wings will be opened up for public use and as exhibition spaces and will include a new sculpture court.
The project is expected to generate approximately 300 full time construction and specialist jobs. In the region of
?¬20 million will be spent between 2013 and 2015.
Dr Olive Braiden, chair of the board of the National Gallery of Ireland, said the gallery and its buildings would be upgraded to world class standards.
“Arts and cultural heritage are our greatest assets and an important natural resource of the Irish people,
? she said.
“It is fitting that the fabric of these historic buildings be upgraded to world class gallery standards.
“I want to acknowledge the tremendous commitment of the Government to the National Gallery of Ireland in providing the core funding for this essential refurbishment,
? she added.
Tenders for the completion of the refurbishment works are currently being drafted and will be issued to the market as soon as possible. It is envisaged that the entire programme of works will be completed in 2015.