By D. W. G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
Preserving a Historical Landmark
The Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, a Grade II* listed tourist attraction in East Sussex, is set to close for five weeks to undergo "essential restoration work." The closure will commence on 5 August and the museum will reopen on 12 September, following critical repairs to its roof. A structural survey conducted in 2019 revealed that this 220 year old building, one of the UK's first purpose built museums, urgently requires these restorations. A museum spokesperson highlighted that the repairs will "bring it up to 21st Century standards," ensuring the preservation and safety of this historic landmark.
The restoration project is largely funded by a grant of nearly £1.5 million from the Arts Council, with Brighton & Hove City Council contributing an additional £500,000. Hedley Swain, chief executive of Brighton & Hove Museums, acknowledged the disappointment of visitors due to the temporary closure but emphasized the necessity of the work. He stated, "The work on the roof is essential to protect visitors and staff, our collections and the building. It needs to be carried out at a time when the weather is expected to be dry, to reduce the risk of water damage." To prepare for the restoration, objects from the 20th Century Gallery have been removed, ensuring their safety during the repairs.
Modern Upgrades for a Historic Building
The restoration of the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is not just about preserving its historic structure but also about upgrading it to meet modern standards. The project will include the replication of the original Georgian lighting scheme, which utilized light wells and sun pipes. This approach will allow the galleries to be illuminated by daylight, significantly reducing energy costs. In addition to lighting, the restoration will address the two large, glazed roofs, with plans to improve ventilation and insulation to enhance the building's carbon performance.
While the museum will reopen in September, two of its galleries the 20th Century Gallery and Mr Willett’s Popular Pottery Gallery will remain closed until the entire building restoration is completed by mid 2025. The upgrades aim to not only protect and preserve the museum’s extensive collections but also to ensure a more sustainable and energy efficient future for the historic site. The comprehensive restoration effort underscores the commitment to maintaining the museum as a cultural and educational hub, blending its rich history with contemporary advancements.
