New architect chosen for gallery

David Chipperfield's new design will be put on public display

An architect has been appointed to draw up a new design for a flagship art gallery in Margate after the original plans were scrapped.

David Chipperfield designed the Figge Art Museum in Iowa, USA, the America's Cup building in Spain and Germany's Museum of Modern Literature.

Kent County Council (KCC) has promised to put a ceiling of £15m on the cost of the seafront Turner Contemporary.

Previous plans were scrapped when projected costs rose to £50m.

The original design, by Norwegian architects Snohetta and Spence, would have seen the gallery built in the sea off the Margate coast.

To see this project moving forward so quickly is excellent news for the regeneration of Margate Sandy Ezekiel

The new onshore proposal now includes a hotel and the renovation of the Winter Gardens to include a high profile concert and conference facility.

"With the appointment of the architect on track we have shown we are totally committed to delivering this landmark building," said KCC leader Paul Carter.

Mr Chipperfield's practice, which was chosen from a shortlist of six, has offices in London, Berlin, Milan and Shanghai.

"We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to design the gallery for Turner Contemporary," he said.

"We look forward to contributing to this important cultural facility."

The new designs will go on display for public consultation at a date yet to be set.

The new building is planned to be completed in 2009.

"To see this project moving forward so quickly is excellent news for the regeneration of Margate," said Thanet District Council leader Sandy Ezekiel.

"Turner Contemporary is key to our plans for the town and we are delighted that it remains on track for a delivery date of 2009."