The tendering process has begun for the £8.7 million renovation of Ipswich Museum.

Ipswich Borough Council seeks to turn the currently-closed Grade II-listed High Street building, which has housed the museum since the 1880s, into a world class cultural hub when it reopens in 2025.

The redevelopment project will involve renovation, expansion and the introduction of new exhibits and the council is now inviting contractors to submit their tenders for the construction phase.

It will involve the repair and refurbishment of the building, new facilities and access with a new lift and levelling of floors.

Next year will see a second round of tenders for the gallery exhibition installation.

Cllr Carole Jones, portfolio holder for planning and museums, said: “This exciting project will see the museum’s facilities improved with better access for all.

“The architectural beauty of Ipswich Museum will be restored to its former glory as we preserve the significant Victorian fabric and fittings in the Natural History Gallery, as well as improving the fabric of the building and its environmental performance.

“We will be opening up spaces to exhibit more of our collections, ensuring that our much-loved Museum will be a wonderful place to visit for years to come.”

Interested parties should visit the Suffolk Sourcing website.

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