Swansea's Glynn Vivian Art Gallery is to close to the public from 30 October ahead of the start of a major £6m redevelopment and extension of the South Wales cultural attraction.

Preparations for the scheme are due to commence in November in order to enable the main phase of work to begin in the New Year, which will lead to an increase in exhibition space.

A new lecture and community room; a reading and resource area; and upgraded facilities for schools and colleges are also proposed, along with a new storage and conservation area.

During its closure, a series of workshops for local schoolchildren and adults will take place at alternative venues across the city, while some works will be put on display elsewhere.

Funding for the project has been contributed by the Welsh Assembly Government, Swansea Council and the Arts Council of Wales.

Graham Thomas, the council's cabinet member for culture, recreation and tourism, said: "This redevelopment scheme will create a new and exciting visitor experience and bring the attraction into the 21st century, while conserving the original character of the building."