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A planning application has been lodged with Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council which would see part of the original building adapted and new additional features added, including brand new gallery spaces.

At the heart of the proposed new building and refurbishment is a proposal for two single-storey wings to be added, one on each side of the current building.

A new main entrance, together with improvements to ground and first floor spaces are proposed to improve amenities for visitors while minimising their impact on original features or on the integrity of the original building, which itself is more than 100 years old.

The two new wings would be built in materials in keeping with the existing structure, and would feature extensive glazing intended to bring more light into the building and to help link the building with its setting in Riversley Park.

These proposals follow a public consultation during 2021 where a two-storey extension on one side of the building was put forward.

The scheme will benefit from grant support from the Towns Fund, with further grant funding currently being sought. Visit MyTownNuneaton to find out more about the Nuneaton Town Investment Plan and the projects receiving funding.

Explained Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council portfolio holder for Public Services, Cllr Sue Markham:

“The Museum and Art Gallery is a much-loved treasure and does so much to showcase our Borough’s proud history.

“This planning application is evidence of this Borough Council’s determination to invest in our heritage and our community. We have listened carefully to the feedback received in the public consultation last year and now have amended proposals that we believe will give a more symmetrical appearance to the overall building.

“The finished building will provide additional gallery space so more of our fascinating collections can be on display, and will continue to play an important part in drawing people to the Borough, to Nuneaton town centre and into Riversley Park.”

The extensions will also help the building deliver improvements which were found to be important to consultants including a tearoom with views of the park, downstairs toilets, a changing room facility as well as a larger events space which will enable activities such as film shows, makers’ markets and more workshops.  The larger entrance will enable groups like schools to be welcomed inside rather than outside.

Full detailed proposals can be viewed online in the Borough Council’s planning portal at www.nuneatonandbedworth.gov.uk, or search application number 038541 here.

The Museum is open Tuesday 10.30am to 4.30pm, Wednesday 10.30am to 4.30pm, Thursday (downstairs and tearoom only) 10.30 - 4.30pm, Friday 10.30am to 4.30pm and Saturday 10.30 - 4.30pm. FREE admission but donations welcome.

The Museum will be closed from 25 December through to 31 December inclusive. The Museum will re-open with its regular opening times on 1 January 2022.