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Tate Modern set for £215m extension

28/03/2007

London's Tate Modern gallery is to undergo a multimillion pound extension after getting the green light from Southwark Council.

A £215 million development will commence work on the south side of the current site, in what the Tate hopes will be a "spectacular" new addition.

Aimed at young people and improving visitor engagement, Tate director Sir Nicholas Serota is hoping to have the 76-metre high glass building ready by the time the 2012 Olympics comes to the capital.

Designed by award-winning architects Herzog and de Meuron, the extension will allow the gallery to widen its offerings and also cope with soaring demand.

"We are delighted," said Sir Nicholas on hearing the council had given approval, adding he had been given full backing by local residents.

A spokeswoman described plans for a "spectacular building" which would "provide more space for modern and contemporary art".

"It will enable Tate to enrich its programme by exploring new areas of contemporary visual culture."

The London Development Agency has pledged £7 million towards the project, which is expected to further augment the Tate's 4.9 million annual visitors.


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