27 May 2013

Council confident of funds for gallery upgrade

6:01 am on 27 May 2013

Whanganui District Council is confident millions of dollars can be raised to fund an ambitious redevelopment of the city's public art gallery.

As well as earthquake proofing, a new northern wing is planned for the Sarjeant Gallery, providing more exhibition and storage space.

Mayor Annette Main said the council needs to match $10 million pledged by the Government for the $32 million project and is using a professional fundraiser. The rest will come from grants and a building levy

Sponsorship is also being sought from organisations and individuals, mostly outside Whanganui.

The Sarjeant Gallery is almost 100 years old