A major scheme to improve Wrexham Museum will soon be getting underway as the main contractor has now been appointed.
It was announced last week that ISG Regions has been awarded the contract following a tendering process, to carry out the first phase of physical improvements that will turn Wrexham County Borough Museum and Archive into the flagship museum for our area. This company has a great deal of relevant experience, in particular working with listed buildings, museums and glass structures.
Cllr Bob Dutton OBE, Lead Member for the Leisure, Libraries and Culture department said: “We are very happy that a contractor is in place and this extensive refurbishment can now get underway.
This first phase will include:
- A glass extension to house a new reception, coffee shop and gift shop at the front of the building
- New and improved displays aimed at families and a gallery dedicated to exhibit collections from Amgueddfa Cymru National Museum Wales and the National Library of Wales
- Improved teaching facilities for schools and other educational activities
The physical improvements will be accompanied by a programme of events and activities to involve people from the community in their heritage.
Gary Hughes, Regional Construction Director for ISG said: ‘ISG Regions are delighted to be appointed as principle contractor for this exciting and high profile scheme. North Wales is an important area within our business growth strategy and we look forward to working with the team during the project, in order to deliver a high quality attraction which leaves a lasting impression on the new and returning visitors to Wrexham Museum.’
To allow for the improvements to take place the Museum closed its doors on 23 December 2009 and will reopen again late 2010/early 2011.
Until Wrexham Museum and Archive reopens, the Museum Service will continue to operate from Bersham Heritage Centre, where the AN Palmer Centre for Local Studies and Archives has now been relocated and is open.
The Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded a grant of £950,000 towards the Phase 1 project.
