Construction work has started on the Tate St Ives Phase 2 project today.

Construction company Mansell has started work on the initial phase of excavation work for the project, digging out the blue Elvin granite and shale adjacent to the gallery, where the new extension will be.

A spokesman said: "Whilst everything will be done to minimise the impact of the works, it will be noisy. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

The excavation work is likely to take approximately nine weeks, with a two week break at Christmas, from December 20 to January 5 inclusive.

Mansell’s working hours are 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Tate St Ives says that Phase 2 has "developed out of and been informed by close consultation with local residents and visitors to St Ives".

Adding: "This desire to see more of the Tate Collection in Cornwall, and a continued interest in the best of international modern and contemporary art. In addition it is clear that there is broad interest in our events and learning programmes.
"Tate is now embarking on a programme of works which will see the creation of an extension doubling the current gallery space, as well as deliver new dedicated learning spaces and improved visitor facilities in the existing building."