Horsham Museum Shuts for 4 Months to Get a Stunning Makeover!

Horsham Museum and Art Gallery, located in West Sussex, will be closing its doors for four months to allow for important repairs to its roof and stonework. The closure will begin on 7 September and last until 5 January next year. This decision was made after specialist contractors, who were brought in during August, discovered that parts of the building's stonework had started to deteriorate. Because the museum is a Grade II listed building, it requires special conservation work that can only be done while the museum is closed to the public.

Horsham District Council, which is responsible for the museum, explained that the repairs are necessary to protect not only the building but also the visitors, staff, and the valuable collections inside. Mark Baynham, the council's deputy leader, emphasized that these repairs are vital for the safety and future of the museum. He said that the work will help preserve this important historic building for many years to come. In addition to fixing the roof and stonework, the museum will also use this time to refurbish three of its galleries.

When the museum reopens, visitors can look forward to a brand new costume gallery, which will display clothing from different periods in history. There will also be a refreshed Age of Discovery gallery, which will highlight stories from Horsham during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The council hopes that these improvements will make the museum even more enjoyable and educational for everyone. Mark Baynham said he hopes visitors will understand why the closure is necessary and looks forward to welcoming them back in the new year with exciting exhibitions and activities. For more information or to share your own story ideas, you can contact BBC Sussex or tune in to BBC Radio Sussex for updates.