The centre has enabled the British Museum to build on current successes, to store, conserve, study and display the collection for the future. It provides state-of-the-art laboratories and studios, world-class stores for the collection, as well as facilities to support an extensive UK and international loan programme.

The redevelopment project was one of the largest in the museum’s 260-year history and took almost four years to complete. The centre cemented the British Museum’s reputation as a world leader in exhibition, conservation, examination and analysis of cultural objects from across the globe.

Carole Souter, former Chief Executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re delighted that the building has been so well-received, adding a world-class facility to the British Museum estate.”

The innovative design of the new building was shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2017.