Ipswich Museum is a Grade II* Listed building of exceptional significance, a wonderful example of late Victorian architecture.
Since opening in 1881, the Museum and the collections it houses have been a treasured attraction for so many in the town, and for visitors to Ipswich. However, for Ipswich Borough Council to continue providing access to such a monumental building, the Museum is in need of significant renovations.
The planned redevelopment project will restore and improve the purpose-built Museum to display more of the town’s collections, and refurbish existing galleries.
Securing funding support through the Arts Council administered Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND) fund has ensured that a much-needed programme for re-roofing the building can get underway. These standalone re-roofing works form part of the wider project to redevelop Ipswich Museum funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF), Ipswich Borough Council, Garfield Weston Foundation, Wolfson Foundation, Foyle Foundation, Friends of Ipswich Museum and Lord Belstead Trust.
After re-roofing is completed, other planned redevelopment and improvement works at the Museum will continue as part of the larger ongoing project to restore and redisplay Ipswich’s internationally significant collections.
The Museum will work with Ipswich communities and visitors to reinterpret the collections, gather new stories, and create fresh conversations, so people gain a sense of pride in Ipswich and understand that not only does the town have a rich history but is also forward-thinking about its dynamic future.
When Ipswich Museum reopens, visitors can also expect new heating, insulation, and lighting, which will significantly improve the building’s environmental performance. Plus, a beautifully restored museum that can be enjoyed for generations to come.
James Fairclough, Director of Operations and Place at Ipswich Borough Council, says:
“We’re delighted to receive this timely and essential funding support for Ipswich Museum through the Arts Council's MEND fund. Securing MEND funding has ensured that these much-needed improvement works can commence immediately, after which the other planned redevelopment works at the Museum will continue as part of the larger ongoing project to restore and redisplay Ipswich’s internationally significant collections.”
Photo: Ipswich Borough Council/Ipswich Museum
