The project to build the V&A Museum of Design Dundee has taken a major step forward with the signing of the construction contract between Dundee City Council and BAM Construction Ltd.

Work on site will begin next month under the £80.11 million project, with the main building completed by the end of 2017 and opened to the public before June 2018.

Completion of V&A Dundee will help create hundreds of jobs and inject millions of pounds into the economy.

“I am delighted that work to create a world-class museum and visitor centre will start soon at the heart of our central waterfront.

“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.”

Ken Guild

Dundee City Council administration leader Councillor

"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."

Philip Long

Director of V&A Dundee

“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.”

Doug Keillor

Regional Director of BAM Construction in Scotland