New photos have revealed the progress being made at Ipswich Museum as the £11.5m redevelopment project enters its next phase.
The project – ongoing since the museum’s closure in October 2022 – aims to modernise the museum with new spaces and improved facilities while preserving its Victorian heritage.
Changes include a reimagining of the Grade II* listed building’s internal layout, creating additional gallery and exhibition spaces for visitors.
Other works include the creation of new research and conservation rooms, together with a learning space and new staircase in the north wing.
Original features, including cornices, skirtings, floor tiles and floorboards, are being restored along with extensive window repairs which are now reaching completion.
New roof lights will also provide natural daylight in areas of the building, while work to create new toilets in the basement also form part of the plans.
Funding for the project has been supplied by a host of local and national organisations including Ipswich Borough Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and the Friends of Ipswich Museum.
Councillor Carole Jones, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Planning and Museums, said: “As the project has progressed, it’s been amazing to see the architectural beauty of this building preserved and restored to its former glory, inside and out.
“This next phase of the redevelopment will see Ipswich Museum’s facilities improved and accessible for all future visitors, as well as allowing for better use of the space in creating more exhibition areas and extra capacity to display even more of our wonderful collections.
“I’m very pleased that we will be opening up these spaces so that much-loved and admired objects will be centre stage in the new galleries and will help us to tell the story of Ipswich and its communities, past and present.”
Cllr Jones added the addition of the learning space, alongside other new spaces, will allow for more activities and events to be held in the museum.
She added: “This phase of the project also provides the scope to support an events and activity programme that will see the museum become a dynamic, engaging cultural hub for residents and visitors alike.
“I’d like to once again thank the construction team, the museum team, conservators, volunteers and project supporters for all their work to ensure that our much-loved museum will be a wonderful place to visit for years to come.”
Redevelopment works are being led by local contractor Gipping Construction.
The museum is expected to reopen in 2026.