Work is underway to redevelop a former book and print works in Dundee.

The project will see the West Ward Works building transformed into a new cultural and creative hub, with possible uses of the space as a cultural venue, business incubator and innovation centre.

The building is owned by DC Thomson, the publisher behind magazines such as 'The Broons', 'Oor Wullie' and 'The Beano'.

The redevelopment will be delivered in phases, with occupation of the building commencing later this year. A charitable trust will be established to manage the project.

The scheme is being taken forward following a period of research and analysis led by Bryan Beattie of Creative Services.


David Cook, who has been appointed as Project Director to lead the development, said: "I'm delighted to have been appointed to this very exciting project, which will build on Dundee's incredible track record of design-led regeneration.

"West Ward has huge potential and, at 200,000 square feet, could become one of the largest, permanent creative spaces in the UK. The next phase of its development will begin a process of redeveloping the site to realise its potential economic, social and cultural impacts for the city and beyond."

DC Thomson Director and Chief Operating Officer, David Thomson, added: "We're delighted to be investigating opportunities for the future use of West Ward.

"DC Thomson is fully supportive of Dundee's Cultural development, including the V&A Dundee project, and we're keen to contribute to further arts facilities for the city. We've been exploring ideas for the potential revitalisation of our West Ward building as a cultural space with initiatives like the Dundee Design Festival which will take place again in 2017.

"Other former industrial spaces and jute mills have been successfully redeveloped for the creative communities. This project will help us to understand the potential for our building in Guthrie Street and to develop proposals for the costs, funding and financial viability of the project."

(LM/MH)