£1m restoration appeal Why Glasgow Art Club recently began a massive renovation project which will be completed over the next four or five years. This first phase of the work has brought health and safety standards into line with recent statutory requirements. It opens the way for much greater public access to the club. Moves in that direction have already begun, with non-members being welcomed to the club to view exhibitions on the Saturday after the opening. The next phase will include extensive renovation of the fabric of the gallery and complete overhaul of the roof. The costThe estimated cost of the total project is £1.5m. We will raise £250,000 through a members' levy and expect to secure another £250,000 in grants. This has left the challenging target of £1m. much is already being achieved through fund-raising efforts and with the help of all those who value it, we believe we can continue the Art Club's role in the artistic life of Glasgow as well as its historical and architectural significance. The workThe first phase was completed within budget and on time at the end of the summer. It involved lifting floorboards in almost every room in the building. All the heating, lighting and other electrical services have been renewed in line with statutory requirements and the fire-escapes upgraded. The kitchen has been refurbished and the dining room given better heating and lighting arrangements, including low-level radiators which allow the window shutters to be closed in accordance with the original design. In addition to the urgently needed gallery restoration and roof overhaul, the next phase will result in a number of new amenities including an easily accessible toilet for disabled people on the ground floor. This is in line with our aim of encouraging more public access. |