The Model Arts and Niland Gallery in Sligo has welcomed a €600,000 contribution from the borough council towards its ambition €6m redevelopment project.

Model Niland has said the overall redevelopment scheme aims to build on its reputation as one of Ireland's leading centres for contemporary culture, and fully realise its potential as a flagship cultural centre in Ireland.

"The Future Model will be a world-class cultural centre with an unparalleled visitor experience marking Sligo on the international cultural map," said a spokesman.

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Major changes include a new purpose built performance space, a new main entrance, a new gallery to complete the gallery circuit on the first floor, a new education space for workshops and projects, nine new artists' studios and a new destination restaurant.

The estimated cost of the entire project is in the region of €6m.

Grants of €3.5m have already been awarded from Central Government via the Department of Arts Sports and Tourism's Access grants and this matching funding comes at a crucial time for the development, with the second phase of building works due to commence in the coming weeks.

Sligo Borough Council said its award demonstrates confidence in the project and in the dynamic development of the region.

(PR/JM)