Description:

Revised plans for a first stage application to extend the Bromley Museum have been given the go ahead.

Potential funding will allow for an extension of the museum service into part of the now vacated Orpington library building. The revised proposals for a first stage application to the Heritage Lottery Fund the site at the Priory in Orpington include plans for heritage repairs to the Grade II* listed building, the extension of visitor facilities and improvement of exhibition spaces at the site.

"These are exciting proposals which would transform the museum and encourage more visitors to see and understand the rich heritage which underpins our Borough. We have many interesting exhibits and these would be displayed to best effect in surroundings that visitors expect. Whilst nothing is certain, we have carefully considered our resubmission to meet the requirements and in any case, the museum will continue to remain a valuable resource" said Councillor Peter Morgan, Executive Councillor for Renewal and Recreation.

The aim of the scheme is to preserve and improve a significant historical building within the borough and develop its accessibility. Other objectives will include the reinstatement of the green court in front of the building and improved access with new interconnecting spaces throughout the facility. Visitor facilities would also be improved with plans for a reception area, café, landscape viewing platform, atrium and a lift. More exhibition spaces would be built for the display of local artefacts.

The Bromley Museum at the Priory in Orpington is located in a medieval building in the north end of the high street. Its permanent exhibitions include 'Bromley's Past', with information about the history of the borough and 'Your Place', where people can share their local experiences. The planned enhancements to the museum support the aims and objectives of the Orpington Master Plan to increase vibrancy and raise the town's profile. Other projects have included the successful improvements to the High Street, the relocation of Orpington library to the heart of the town centre and the renewal of the south end of the High Street with the Tesco development.

Orpington Library relocated from the Priory to the heart of the town centre and opened to the public in May. The new facility provides modern facilities, a more pleasant community space and increased opening hours. The library has seen significant increases in membership and visitor numbers in the months since its opening.