Following the First Minister’s announcement earlier it will be possible for museums and galleries to reopen to the public.

The National Galleries of Scotland will open their buildings in a phased manner from August.

A spokesman said: “We warmly welcome The Scottish Government’s announcement that museums and galleries can now be safely re-opened, and are very much looking forward to welcoming the public back.

“We have been working hard on the plans for reopening, and the health and safety of our visitors, and the visitor experience, are at the very heart of this. The reopening of our sites requires complex logistical planning, and a gradual reopening allows us to prepare for and implement the appropriate measures that will ensure the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers and employees.

“These measures will follow Government advice and include the implementation of physical distancing and PPE equipment, employee training and new temporary ticketing systems allowing visitors to book free timed slots to enjoy our sites and the national collection. We will also be working to securing the UK-wide ‘Good to Go’ accreditation.

“The pandemic has been difficult and challenging for all, and we would like to express our gratitude to the public for their ongoing engagement and support through these testing times. 

“Whilst we gradually reopen, we will continue to support and work closely with our cultural partners. We will also continue to share Scotland’s wonderful national art collection online.

“Museums and galleries play an integral role in the health and well-being of all our lives, and with our reopening, we hope our cultural organisation and collection — and that of our cultural counterparts across the country — will continue to calm, comfort, educate, spark conversations and inspire creativity.”

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