More delays to Usher Hall's new extension

Published on Monday 12 October 2009 10:01

THE opening of the new extension at the Usher Hall has been delayed until next year.

The new glass "wing" was expected to be unveiled this month after 11th-hour delays ruled out its use during the Edinburgh International Festival.

Bosses say the venue may be ready by Christmas, but staff have been told it is unlikely to be ready until well into the new year.

The new crescent-shaped building has not yet been handed over by contractors for fitting out.

The delay is the latest problem to hit the second phase of the multi-million pound revamp.

The first phase of work, mainly to the hall's main auditorium, was not finished until autumn 2000, while the second phase did not get under way until the spring of 2007 due to funding problems.

A spokesman for the council said: "Contractors are continuing to work on the wing. Once this is completed, the new spaces will be furnished. It is anticipated this work will be completed by the end of the year."