The Millbank Project

Tate has embarked upon a multi-stage transformation of Tate Britain, to be delivered in a series of phases over the next twenty years. This follows the acclaimed Tate Centenary Development in the 1990s, which created the Manton Entrance and Linbury exhibition galleries, and upgraded the galleries in the north-west quadrant in readiness for the new millennium.

The initial phase of the current development, spanning 2011 to 2013 and budgeted at £45 million, will transform the oldest part of the Grade II building – the Millbank Entrance, Rotunda, and galleries in the south-east quadrant – and create new spaces for display, education and social activities.

The Millbank Project embodies Tate’s commitment to providing a cultural experience appropriate to a world class museum.

Key objectives:

• To improve the architectural quality and coherence of the building
• To improve the quality of the galleries, allowing us to show more varied works of art in secure environmental conditions and in better light
• To showcase the archive and place it at the heart of the building’s foundations
• To integrate learning within the body of the gallery
• To improve the quality of our visitor facilities, notably the café
• To create a special space for members
• To regain the prestigious spaces around the Rotunda

The first phase of the project began in 2010. Construction commenced in March 2011 and a full re-opening is planned for autumn 2013.

The subsequent phases of the Tate Britain project will be implemented after 2014 and will aim to restore the galleries in the south-west quadrant; create a new suite of galleries, visitor and work space on the site of Tate Britain’s current car park, situated behind the main gallery building; and transform Tate Britain’s landscape facing the River Thames, in order to maximise the benefits and potential of its gardens.