Ipswich Museum is entering the next important stages of its ambitious redevelopment project, with construction phases nearing completion and the transformation of the historic building well underway.
The project, which is modernising the Museum while preserving its Victorian heritage, is set to unveil new spaces and improved facilities for visitors.
The internal layout of the Grade II* listed building has been reimagined to enhance accessibility and create additional gallery space to allow more of our collections to be on show than ever before. Areas previously used as offices - never before seen by the public - are being converted into exhibition spaces, offering visitors a blend of familiar rooms and exciting new discoveries.
Key developments now include:
- Creation of new spaces including Research and Conservation rooms, and a Learning Space with enhanced visitor facilities such as toilets and access to refreshments.
- Restoration of original architectural features, including cornices, skirtings, floor tiles and floorboards.
- Installation of a new staircase in the North Wing, creation of a link corridor to the South wings and a lift shaft connecting all floors.
- Completion of roof works and installation of new roof lights in the West Wing providing natural daylight to suitable areas of the building.
- Extensive window repairs nearing completion and ongoing interior decoration underway.
- Mechanical & Electrical works completed in the basement in preparation for a new toilet area.
Councillor Carole Jones, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Planning and Museums says:
“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 scope 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.”
“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.”
The £11.5 million Ipswich Museum redevelopment project is funded and supported by Ipswich Borough Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, Clore Duffield Foundation, Foyle Foundation, Garfield Weston, The Wolfson Foundation and the Friends of Ipswich Museum. The Museum is expected to re-open in 2026.