The National Science and Media Museum is to undergo a “radical” £6m, “once-in-a-generation” makeover, ahead of Bradford becoming City of Culture in 2025.
The project, called Sound and Vision, includes 2 new galleries, a passenger lift and improvements to the main entrance.
It will mean the museum will be closed from June 2023 until the summer of next year, with work expected to be complete in December 2024. Its cinema will remain open throughout.
The museum stated that the new galleries would showcase key objects and stories from its photography, film, television, animation, video games and sound tech collections.
“This major investment in the museum will radically transform our visitor offer both in terms of content and accessibility. In the new galleries, visitors will be able to find stories that resonate with them, showing how all areas of our collections – from photography to gaming – are embedded in every aspect of our lives, and inspiring the next generation of creatives, inventors and scientists. During the period of museum closure, we look forward to welcoming cinema visitors and working with local residents to curate the new galleries,” explained Jo Quinton-Tulloch, the museum’s Director.
“With the additional lift and revamped foyer, we will be able to welcome many more visitors, which will be vital as we approach Bradford’s year as City of Culture in 2025. The new permanent displays on levels three and five and the enhanced public space in our new foyer will futureproof Bradford’s national museum for decades to come.”
The development will include the complete remodelling of 2 floors, to open up unused spaces. The ground floor will also be reconfigured to create a new public space.
“We are delighted to be supporting the National Science and Media Museum to develop their ambitious plans to transform their site and make this national and local treasure one of the star attractions for City of Culture 2025,” said Anne Jenkins, Executive Director of Business Delivery at The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
“In addition, the museum’s commitment to community engagement and skills development ensures that the Sound and Vision Project will have a lasting and meaningful impact.”
