On (January 30, 2018) The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited Dundee, Scotland to open the new V&A Museum and to meet employees and their families from the Dundee Michelin factory. The Earl and Countess of Strathearn as they are known in Scotland started their set of engagements at V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum. William and Catherine met with met architect of the building as well as representatives from the Young Peoples Collective, who design programmes, and lead activities and tours of the Museum.

The Duchess of Cambridge gave a speech in her role as Patron of the V&A saying:

‘William and I are so pleased to be back here in Dundee to celebrate the opening of this wonderful museum today. Thank you so much for inviting us. Last February, I was delighted to become Patron of The V&Ain London. Now, nearly a year later, I’m thrilled to be standing in a brand new V&A: one which has been built for the city of Dundee and for Scotland, and which is already picking up international awards. In its first four months alone, it welcomed over three-hundred and sixty-thousand visitors – a truly remarkable feat.

Walking around this world-class space, it’s easy to see how Scotland’s first dedicated design museum is already inspiring the next generation, by providing a new learning space for discovery. I have been captivated by the breath-taking architecture, and the sheer range of design on display. But most of all I’ve been moved by the passion of the people who work here, and the dedication of all those who have helped make this important project to succeed.

I believe we should celebrate all our leading galleries, museums, and cultural centres playing a greater role in communities, not just in London, but up and down the countrytoo. The cultural riches of the UK belong to all people of the UK. This is what V&A Dundee has achieved. The partners involved in this project from the local area, Scotland, and the UK more broadly all deserve enormous credit for the way you have collaborated to make this happen.

I hope that this Museum will serve as an inspiration to others, by showing how great things can be achieved when different communities all pull together. With this thought in mind, I am pleased to declare V&A Dundee ‘officially’ open. I wish you all every success for the future.’

The pair then went on a short walkabout outside the museum to greet the public.

On their second engagement The Earl and Countess met with employees and their families from the Dundee Michelin Factory at the Crescent Community Centre to hear first hand about the impact the factory’s closure is having on their families and the area. William and Catherine joined a meeting of the Michelin Dundee Action Group, which is working to repurpose the site and ensure new employment opportunities for the local area.

GALLERY LINK
Engagements & Tour Photos – 2019 – January 29: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Visit Dundee