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Topping out ceremony
takes place

by Martin Jefferies

Construction of a long-awaited regeneration project in Margate
has reached a crucial stage, with the topping out ceremony of the
Turner Contemporary.

The team behind the £18 million art gallery were given a
guided tour of the site at the ceremony, just a year after building
work began.

It will not be until spring 2011 that colourful artwork replaces
the bare concrete walls and visitors can enjoy the panoramic views
that inspired so many of JMW Turner’s paintings but Cllr Mike Hill,
cabinet member for community services at Kent County Council,
promised an “outstanding building for the people of Margate”.

He said: “I’m very proud of what everyone has achieved. It’s
been a tough few years and after the failure of the first design,
we were determined to see this one through.

“The Turner Contemporary won’t just be an art gallery; it will
be a catalyst for the regeneration of the whole of Margate. I hope
this building will be exciting enough to draw people into the town
and provide an essential economic boost.”

Cllr Sandy Ezekiel, leader of Thanet District Council, added:
“We’ve put the troubled past of this project behind us and this
gallery will be a world-class attraction that will help transform
Margate into a world-class town.”

The ground floor of the Turner Contemporary will feature a
double height room to showcase new commissions. The main galleries
and a community studio will be housed on the first floor, which
will also include a balcony providing spectacular views out to
sea.

Kent-based contractors R. Durtnell and Sons have been tasked
with building the gallery, designed by award-winning architect
David Chipperfield.

John Durtnell, chairman of the building firm, said: “We have a
small but dedicated team on-site and the hard work really starts
now.

“Up until this point it’s been concrete, cranes and boys’ toys
but now it’s all about the mechanical and electrical installations
and those finishing touches.”