Work has started this week to transform the Civic Offices into a suitable space for the new Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.
The initial phase involves preparatory works for a new lift, which will enhance accessibility for those with mobility challenges. These works commenced on Tuesday, 25th July, and are expected to be completed within the coming weeks.
This is the first step before more extensive renovations are undertaken to convert the top floor of the building into a space that can adequately showcase Swindon’s impressive historical collections and a nationally significant assortment of modern British art.
Upon completion, the Civic Offices will offer approximately 40 percent more exhibition space compared to its former location at Apsley House in Old Town.
The upgraded venue will also provide improved working conditions and additional areas for staff, volunteers, and researchers, thereby creating an excellent opportunity to revitalise the museum and art gallery’s volunteer program.
A designated area will be developed as a school learning and lunchroom, which will also double as a venue for hosting museum events, particularly those catered towards families and centred around the extensive collections of the museum and art gallery.
Presently, the ground floor of the Civic Offices accommodates temporary displays from the museum’s collections and currently features the Landscape and Longing exhibition.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Heritage, Art, and Culture, expressed her excitement, stating, “It’s great to finally see work begin on this new museum and art gallery.
“I know a lot of people have been waiting a long time for this new space and I can’t wait to see it finished.
“There is still a lot of work to be done, so make sure you’re following the Council’s social media pages to get the latest on the project when the main construction work begins.”
Linda Kasmaty, Chair of the Friends of the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, shared her delight, saying, “The Friends are delighted that work is about to start on making the Civic Offices suitable to become Swindon’s Museum and Art Gallery.
“We are also very encouraged that the new administration is committing to transparency and communication, and we look forward to working closely with them and their officers to support them in their drive to create the best and most professional museum that they can.”
