The Thinker by Rodin is among the exhibits

Now Glasgow City Council has decided that replacement of the roof "has now become a matter urgency" if the treasures such as ancient antiquities, tapestries and valuable works of art are to be protected.

Council chiefs have already spent thousands trying to locate the source of water leaks from the glass and stainless steel roof of the building in the city's Pollok Park.

They are now planning to spend �2.8m over the next three years to replace the roof.

A council spokesman said that the innovative design of the museum was "visually stunning".

However, he said that the Burrell's unique design meant it was difficult to trace the source of the leaks.

Complex procedure

"The most dramatic part of the roof is glass. We are replacing the part of the roof that is stainless steel.

"We will be re-covering it to ensure that it no longer leaks."

He said that the work was quite a complex procedure which also involved work to the walls of the building.

He said that there had been no damage to any of the exhibits but if any of the treasures were threatened then the work would become a priority.