Work is set to begin on the next stage of an exciting new wing at Birmingham, Museum and Art Gallery, thanks to a major lottery funding boost.
The building and fit-out for ‘Birmingham – A City in the Making’ will begin in December 2010 with the new £9.7 million project set for completion in September 2012.
Birmingham City Council Cabinet members have given the green-light to the next phase of the project, partly funded by a £4.8m by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
That money will go towards the development of an innovative and groundbreaking new wing of galleries focussing on the history and development of Birmingham and its people.
Birmingham – A City in the Making will substantially raise the profile of the city’s important global heritage, with the new galleries serving as a landmark destination for visitors to the city who want an insight into its historical significance.
Cllr Martin Mullaney, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport & Culture, said “I’m delighted we are able to move on with this exciting project which will transform the way we tell the story of Birmingham and its people.
“The project will showcase a unique collection of objects dating from 1500 to the present day. The collection represents our manufacturing tradition, the diverse communities found here in Birmingham and the continuing growth of our great city.
“We are extremely grateful for the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund and without HLF support this project would not have been possible.”
Rita McLean, Head of Museums & Heritage Services, added: “This is the first phase of an ambitious long-term masterplan for the Museum & Art Gallery which will transform what is already an important venue and enable it to fulfil its full potential as a world-class cultural asset.”
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Notes to Editors
Images are available to download via the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/birminghamnewsroom/sets/72157625051215414/
Birmingham – A City in the Making will see the re-display and reinterpretation of BMAG’s outstanding Birmingham history collections. The displays will also draw upon other designated collections.
The new project will be housed in over 1000m2 of refurbished galleries and will meet public demand for more emphasis on Birmingham history at BMAG, presenting the city’s history in its significant global and national context.
Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy.
For further information contact Geoff Coleman on 0121 303 3501
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