Oamaru's Forrester Gallery redevelopment project has failed to secure $3 million in this year's funding rounds.

An additional request for $1.5 million is also expected to be denied.

A report presented to the Waitaki District council shows the regional cultural and heritage fund did not approve $2 million because it required detailed plans and a final costing

The lottery environment and heritage committee did not approve a further $1 million because other applicants were assessed as having fewer funding options for projects that are "more advanced".