Opening of High Mill Open Gallery in Dundee

An invited audience of 200 people gathered tonight (Wednesday) to witness Sir Neil Cossons OBE perform the opening ceremony.

Sir Neil is Britain’s leading authority on industrial heritage and he has had an illustrious career in the museum and heritage sector, including as director of the Science Museum in London and chairman of English Heritage.

His association with Dundee Heritage Trust goes back over 30 years to when he was involved in helping establish the charity and bring Discovery back to Dundee.

He said: “The High Mill development is exceptional for both the quality of the conservation work and the inventiveness of the design which has produced a unique visitor experience.”

Dundee Heritage Trust is enormously proud that our small charity has completed the ambitious project to restore the remaining derelict buildings on the Verdant Works site, almost doubling the size of the museum.

The Trust worked with a skilled professional team of curators, architects, designers, engineers and contractors to produce an innovative scheme for the High Mill and Glazed Alley.

Gill Poulter, heritage director of Dundee Heritage Trust, said: “When I think where we were less than two years ago – the High Mill in a derelict and dangerous stage, on the verge of collapse – to now having such a stunning building, a fantastic new cultural asset for the city.

“I would like to say thank you to the professional team and the numerous contractors who have achieved such an amazing result in such a short time. I would also like to pay tribute to our funders - the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Environment Scotland and 23 other charitable trusts, organisations and individuals - who all had the vision to see the amazing potential of this site and the faith in our

organisation that we could deliver it. Their support made this project possible, securing a sustainable future for this nationally important industrial heritage complex.”

Lucy Casot, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: “High Mill has been transformed to complete this popular five-star museum. Not only does it make for a contemporary visitor experience, it allows the Trust to host new events and exhibitions, and widen their ‘What’s On’ programme. Many more people, from near and far, can now enjoy and learn about the workings of an industry which is woven into the Dundee’s heritage, adding to the city’s growing attraction as a cultural visitor destination.”