Natural History Museum chiefs have ruled out the idea of turning Aberdeen's former John Lewis building into a branch.
However, the Press & Journal says that talks about the proposal have yielded some benefits for the city.
The idea for the Natural History Museum to set up a northern outpost was mooted a year ago as Aberdeen City Council searched to find uses for George Street's Norco House.
The London-based attraction has about 80million items, but only a tiny fraction are ever on display.
It was hoped the city centre building could be a perfect home for some of the hidden gems.
The scheme was the brainchild of Lower Deeside councillor Marie Boulton, inspired by attractions such as the Eden Project expanding to Dundee.
Westminster chaos
Officers tasked with discussing the notion with UK Government culture tsars soon found themselves caught up in Westminster chaos, as staffing changes held up any progress. But now they've finally reported back.
However, the news isn't good for anyone hoping to see whale skeletons on display in Norco House.
Chief city growth officer Richard Sweetnam said the Natural History Museum confirmed it has no plans to develop a regional offer anywhere in the UK.
But he also explained that the talks did come with something of a silver lining.
He told a council meeting that museum management are taking certain displays to other parts of Britain - including Aberdeen.
That includes a wildlife photography exhibition, which will be factored into the city's events plan.
Aberdeen date
The images will go on tour throughout the year, but no date has yet been confirmed for Aberdeen.
And Mr Sweetnam added that "conversations are continuing" on other attractions that could come to the north-east.
Norco House has had an uncertain future since John Lewis shut in 2021.
Council co-leader Ian Yuill recently suggested that the "only option" for its long-term future would be demolition.
But there remains hope it could have a new lease of life, with planners last year drawing up a range of options for the landmark.