Turner Contemporary is closing its doors due to the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak.

The Director of the gallery in Margate announced the decision "with sadness" in a press release today, and did not give a reopening date.

The beloved attraction is due to shut down for five months in September for essential maintenance work to the building.

The upgrades, which will cost £1.8 million, will include improved access and toilets, a fee-charging car park with 86 spaces, upgrades to the kitchen and shop, and new signs.

A finishing kitchen will also be installed to support event catering and promote venue hire.

It is not known whether or not the gallery plans to reopen before works start on September 7, or if plans to complete the work have been moved forward to coincide with the closure.

Director Victoria Pomery said that the team were "reviewing the situation" and would keep customers updated.

Ms Pomery said: "We want to assure you that we have not taken this decision lightly, but the welfare of our visitors and staff is our top priority.

While our gallery is closed our work continues. We know that art has a vital role to play in all of our lives and we believe that creativity is essential for everyone.

"We recognise the impact that our closure may have and we will be expanding our digital presence.

"We’ll be sharing updates, videos, behind-the-scenes stories and highlights from our archive on our social media channels over the coming weeks.

"I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and we look forward to welcoming you back to Turner Contemporary in the future."

There have been closures all across Kent as the coronavirus continues to spread. Chancellor Rishi Sunak today announced plans for a £330bn loans package to support affected business.

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