National Lottery Grants for Heritage – £250,000 to £5million
Our funding – totalling £5.5million – will support an ambitious four-year redevelopment, plans for which have been shaped by the views of residents and visitors. Galleries and key facilities will be refreshed, making collections more accessible and delivering a range of programming for all ages.
The project will drive important improvements, including:
- building a welcoming new atrium and the relocation of the main entrance into the award-winning Mowbray Park
- installing new lighting, seating, interpretation and planting in the Winter Gardens
- establishing brand new galleries, social spaces and enhancing access throughout
A new community learning facility called The Growing Space will also be created, alongside intergenerational community projects focused on sustainability – building the connection between local people, the natural environment and the museum’s collection.
A packed activity programme will take place throughout the redevelopment, both on site and across the local area during the building’s closure. Pop up sessions and an oral history project will bring local history to life, while new work experience placements and apprenticeships will offer the city’s aspiring curators an opportunity to develop important skills.
Nick Malyan, Chief Executive of Sunderland Culture, the organisation which delivers the creative programme in the museum, said: "This support will renew the offer at Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens and ensure the venue continues to be at the heart of the city’s life. We look forward to working with Sunderland City Council colleagues to welcome new generations of Sunderland residents and visitors, to make new memories and celebrate our wonderful city."
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