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News

Poole Museum Closes for £1m Refurbishment

Poole's Waterfront Museum will close on Sunday 2 October for major redevelopment work to take place following the successful bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund and the award of £750,000 towards a £1 million scheme.

The project will transform the front entrance of the existing building and redisplay the interior galleries. Details of the project are currently being finalised with award-winning architects Horden Cherry Lee and appointed local building contractors, Greendales before being submitted to Cabinet for final approval.

The redevelopment will see the demolition of the existing 1960s entrance to the Museum and the construction of a tall, elegantly-arched steel and glass building. The lottery funding will also enable the Museum to create re-furbished galleries and major new displays that will tell the story of Poole and its people.

New galleries will be designed to enable the display of the 2,000-year-old log boat and the museum's collection of pottery as well as many objects that will be exhibited for the first time.

Cllr Elaine Atkinson, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Community Support, including Culture, Borough of Poole, said: "I know some people will be disappointed that the museum will be closed for almost a year but the refurbished museum with its striking front entrance and exciting new displays will be worth the wait. For the first time people will be able to see the 2,000-year-old log boat discovered in Poole Harbour which at last will get the attention it deserves."

In addition to the Lottery grant Poole Heritage Forum has pledged to raise £100,000 as a community contribution towards the cost of the work.

Peter Burt, of Poole Heritage Forum, said: "The people of Poole are being most generous in their support of this project. Money is coming in but we still have a way to go to reach our target."

Once the Museum is closed to the public, staff will begin to dismantle the displays and pack the exhibits. The objects will all be carefully wrapped and labeled before going into storage during the building works. The Museum re-opening is planned for autumn 2006.

The project has been developed in consultation with local societies to ensure that the new Museum reflects the aspirations of the community.

The Local History Centre will remain open to visitors during the work and Scaplen's Court will continue to welcome school visits. The Local History Centre can be reached on 01202 262613 or 262621.

Rachael Mills, Media Relations Manager, Communications, Borough of Poole tel 01202 633295