A call for expressions of interest from suitably qualified teams has now been issued. The team as a minimum must include an architect, a structural engineer and mechanical and engineering consultants.

Douglas Anderson, estates development project manager, said: “The Mackintosh Building is studied in architecture departments across the globe as an example of almost unmatched design, with generations of architects inspired by Mackintosh’s masterpiece.

“The chance to lead the restoration of this truly iconic building is a once in a life time opportunity and we are anticipating that there will be significant interest from design teams in the UK and beyond.”

Expressions of interest should be registered by 12 noon on Monday 10 November 2014 following which a shortlist of teams will be drawn up who will be invited to submit a full tender. It is anticipated that the design team will be appointed in spring 2015.

Architect-led teams wishing to register an expression of interest should apply here.

Meanwhile work on the roof to secure the building against the winter weather has been completed on schedule.