Royal Academicians welcome in the new era

However, the Academy will be allowed to start using part of the museum before then.

The building will provide a large new gallery to show work by Royal Academicians, students and other contemporary artists, as well as providing a home for the Royal Academy Schools.

An arcade to link the two buildings has been proposed and the academy will be seeking lottery assistance towards the estimated �40m cost.

The Royal Academy is one of the most prestigious art institutions in the world. In recent years it has hosted popular exhibitions of Monet's works, as well as controversial shows Sensation and Apocalypse.

'Unique'

President of the Royal Academy, Professor Phillip King, said: "The academy is unique in being a place governed by artists where art is exhibited, made, debated and sold - all under one roof.

"It has a vitality and creative force which will be enhanced by this additional space. Burlington Gardens opens a new era for the Royal Academy".

Culture Secretary Chris Smith said: "The Academy tried to get hold of Burlington Gardens in 1900 but was beaten at the time by the Civil Service Commission.

"I am delighted to have played a part in seeing that, 100 years after the Academy's last attempt to purchase Burlington Gardens, art has finally triumphed.

"It seems entirely fitting that the former home of the Museum of Mankind will continue to play an important role in the cultural life of London finding a new purpose as a centre for the arts and education."