Museum eyes new galleries with lotto bid

EIGHT new galleries are set to be created in the National Museum of Scotland after a bid for lottery funding was submitted.

It is understood they would involve major displays featuring both science and European art and design.

Bosses see the extension to the Chambers Street museum as a key part of its masterplan.

It is hoped the new galleries will be in place by 2016, with a further three to be added by 2020, taking the total spend on the project to £70 million.

Nearly 1.5 million visitors have come through the doors since its overhaul in July.

Dr Gordon Rintoul, the museum’s director, said: “The next phase of the masterplan will sustain our success and ensure that the museum continues to develop as a ‘must-see’ destination for Scottish and international visitors, and a source of inspiration and wonder for generations to come.”