Indicative design showing scope for remodelling of interior and exterior spaces.

After many years of campaigning, on the part of HMSSG leads and others concerned that the prior cuts to cultural services in the county were irreversible, plans for substantial redevelopment of the Herefordshire Museum and Art Gallery in Broad Street were given the go ahead. Detailed work is now underway with final sign off from the Council expected in summer 2022. The scale of surveying the building will require, and the eventual commissioning of a building contractor experienced in complex builds, will be a lengthy process. it is not expected that the doors will open on the planned 21st century facility fit for national and international standard art exhibitions before early 2027.

The Victorian façade on Broad Street will be maintained along with some interior spaces including the Woolhope Room. Gallery space will be increased delivering a more extensive permanent display as well as temporary exhibitions. There will also be a shop, café and spaces for education and events and, all being well, a rooftop garden and viewing beacon. All areas of the new building will be fully accessible and high standards of ‘EnerPHit’ design will improve the physical environment and reduce running costs.

The cost of the project is expected to be around £15millon the majority of which will come from external funders including the Stronger Towns Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund. Herefordshire Council are the lead organisation for the redevelopment of the Museum and Art Gallery.

The library will be relocated to its long term site in the Shirehall, along with a resource and learning hub. Anticipated opening in mid 2026.

The project will mean the current buildings will be closed for a number of years as, with any large scale and complex building undertaking, there will be challenges along the way with the issues of managing 21st century building improvements and extending modern facilities into a 19th century building framework. You can read more on Herefordshire Council’s website.