Creating a new heritage centre for Newham

The front of a Victorian red-brick building
The project will give a new lease of life to Canning Town Old Library, built in the 19th century.
We’re supporting Newham Council to transform Canning Town Old Library into a home for Newham’s archives and museum collection.

The project will restore and repurpose the Grade II listed building into Newham Heritage Centre, creating a space where the borough’s heritage can be celebrated for the first time.  

The centre sits at the heart of the community and will bring together stories, objects and memories from across generations, presenting them in ways that feel accessible and easy for everyone to explore.

It will preserve and digitise archives, photographs and oral histories and use them as resources for learning and storytelling opportunities. For the first time in 30 years, Newham’s museum collection will go on display in a dynamic exhibition programme.  

Schools, families and community groups will use the centre to understand and learn about Newham’s heritage.  

The project will collaborate with young people from NewVIc college, including introducing a panel for 18 to 24-year-olds who are living, working and studying in Newham. Traineeships including a cultural and learning apprenticeship will give new opportunities for further education.  

Exhibitions and workshops will invite people to contribute their own experiences, making the centre a place where heritage continues to grow. The display space will explore themes such as Space and places, Industry, Activism, Everyday life in Newham and Made in Newham. The project will also introduce a programme including a heritage roadshow and pop-up activities touring 25 community venues.

If you’re looking for further project inspiration, explore our funding across London and South.

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Project data

Programme
National Lottery Grants for Heritage – £250,000 to £5million
Date awarded
Location
Canning Town North
Local Authority
Newham
Applicant
London Borough of Newham
Award Given
£3253765

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