Thanks to the generosity of the Friends of the Museum we have re-gravelled the courtyard in front of the museum and are installing exterior lighting. The inadequate courtyard lighting is being replaced with specially designed uplighters and a less intrusive light over the front door. We have been in discussion with our neighbours about this as the present arrangement -a spotlight- is harsh and contributes to light pollution.

In addition, we are redecorating and renovating the entrance hall to provide a more welcoming and cheerful atmosphere. We have a large image, of women workers clocking on at the Horstmann Gear Works during World War 2 being installed opposite the entrance and a collection of unique tin plate signs, framed artwork and posters will be installed on the wall next to it.

We have a large collection of unseen artworks, of this kind, which we will look forward to displaying and as the light levels in this space are correspondingly low, the artwork will be secure against sunlight damage.

We will look to make the space colourful, inviting and encourage visitors to climb the entrance stair to the ticket desk. The work will be completed during the Autumn, ready for next year’s opening.