The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum on the Wirral has closed until February 2013 for refurbishment.
The 85-year-old museum will under go the most radical transformation in its history. The refurbishment, which started in early December, will see the entire of the museum’s interior changed.
The building is now closed to the public. The new features to be installed include a café, gift shop, new toilet facilities and there will be changes to most of the galleries’ displays. Much of the interior will be changed to improve fire safety and the steps at the front of the museum will be re-laid and new handrails installed, although this is not expected to be completed until later in the year.
More rooms will open following the refurbishment, enabling original galleries to be displayed and permit dedicated spaces to be opened for learning, giving schools and the community better space for educational activities.
Cllr Chris Meaden, Wirral Council Cabinet member for Culture, Tourism and Leisure, said: “I am really looking forward to seeing the revamped Williamson. The improvements that are being carried out are long overdue and will not only significantly improve the experience for visitors; it will also make the building much more accessible and community-focused.”
The last event before refurbishment began was the 9th Oxton Art Fair. This showcased art, craft and design, and brought in nearly 1,500 people to buy work directly from 16 local artists and craftspeople.