Dundee City Council Won't Apologize over V&A Costs
There'll be no apology from Dundee City Council over the rising cost of the V & A.
There'll be no apology from Dundee City Council over the rising cost of the V & A.
Councillors last night debated an independent review into the £30 million overspend - which criticised management of the project.
Author of the review John McLelland was in the chamber for the committee meeting. He provided background for those unaware of his findings.
He said most of the spiralling costs could be attributed to the superstructure and substructure of the building - it's original design saw the museum out in the waters of the Tay.
That concept was scaled back as the budget ran out of control - saving millions.
As the building was redesigned though, construction was delayed. Mr McLelland found postponing the project also added to it's cost.
At the meeting of the council, a motion calling for an apology was put forward by Labour Group Leader Kevin Keenan. It was defeated by three votes.
Chief Executive of Dundee City Council David Martin admitted lessons need to be learned from the costing mistakes - but said the iconic building adds to the city's economy. He said the council is only one partner involved build costing more than £80 million.
Council Leader Ken Guild described the V&A as a "vital cog in the waterfront machine".
He explained every effort had been made to firm up a cost for the exciting project, but there were many reasons that wasn't possible - he also pledged his full and robust support as the project moves on.
The Lord Provost Bob Duncan agreed with this standpoint and stated the people of Dundee don't need an apology as the centre will create jobs in the area and change Dundee's outlook from one of jute and jam to a true city of culture.
We spoke to Councillor Kevin Keenan after the vote was taken on the report.