Work at the art school is expected to finish in 2009

Work has started on the conservation and refurbishment of the world famous Glasgow School of Art building.

The project is the largest renovation of the school and follows more than a decade of planning and fundraising.

Organisers are still looking for about �1m to fully fund the project which will restore the building to Mackintosh's original design.

The Mackintosh Conservation and Access Project will also return a number of studio spaces to student use while offices will be moved elsewhere.

Annual visitor numbers are expected to rise to 33,000, an increase of 30% from the current level of 23,000.

During the work, classes and visitor tours will continue as normal.