Museum of Oxford re-opens following refurbishment

The public will soon be able to return to the Museum of Oxford, following a £2.8m refurbishment which tripled the size of the museum space.

The Museum will re-open on 11 October, with new displays of objects, images, oral histories and interactive exhibits.

The redevelopment includes a new shop and reception desk, improving the welcome area and the facilities.

The ground floor features two new galleries which will show the changing story of Oxford through its history and people, from Romans and Anglo-Saxons to the first Cowley factory workers.

Cllr Mary Clarkson, Oxford City cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism, said: ‘Amongst such an abundance of museums, the Museum of Oxford is significant in that it is the only one that is exclusively about the people of Oxford. The £2.8 million major investment has helped re-imagine the museum for a new generation and makes it an important cultural focus for our city and communities.

‘I look forward to seeing all sorts of people getting involved by going on family trails, taking part in reminiscence projects, understanding the past in school’s workshops, contributing to and exploring community exhibitions and more. It’s a museum for everyone, where everyone can take part.’

The project received funding from the heritage Lottery Fund, Oxford City Council and Arts Council England, as well as major donors, trusts and foundations, companies and individuals.

The new gallery space includes facilities for school learning, interactive displays, community exhibitions, and family activities, and the Museum hope it will act as a community learning hub.

In related news, Wirral Growth Company has received planning approval for two new office developments in Birkenhead, marking the first phase of a wider regeneration project.

Photo by Nils Lindner