Harlow Council is to seek further funding for Harlow Museum and Walled Gardens as it moves into the next phase of its transformation, Cabinet has agreed.
Over the past six years the museum, which is currently open three days a week and is free to enter, has developed an extensive education and cultural programme, achieved Green Flag status for the maintenance of the gardens and accreditation status for the way the museum is run. To further build on this success, a programme of investment has been undertaken to repair its buildings and meet building safety compliance.
As part of the improvements, designs were drawn up for a new café and future extension, into the courtyard area, of education provision and exhibition space. These plans were agreed in October 2024.
Cabinet has now agreed in principle to seek funding for the improvements, which will include:
- New exhibition and gallery space
- A new entrance porch to the museum buildings to provide a meet-and-greet space for visitors
- A new café building with both indoor and outdoor seating
- Refurbishment of the former Scout hut extension to provide a teaching and community space
- Enhanced landscaping around the museum site
The plans aim to attract more schools to the museum, increase space for more displays and artefacts, and enhance visitors’ experience.
Councillor Danielle Browm Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Culture and Community, said:
“With so much history to share with our residents and visitors, the museum truly is one of the jewels in Harlow’s crown.
“As we continue to deliver on our mission to transform our council, I'm pleased that we're now moving forward with exciting plans to take our museum to the next level. The upgrades and redevelopment of the site will bring a wealth of new opportunities. It'll be easier for visitors to explore, and we'll be able to offer schools enhanced learning experiences. We also envision the museum becoming a vibrant venue for celebrations, and I'd love to see weddings taking place in our beautiful gardens in due course.
“These improvements will allow us to better showcase Harlow's vibrant history and provide a fitting home for precious memories and archaeological finds, such as the incredible Roman dodecahedron discovered at Newhall.
“The addition of a new café will significantly strengthen the museum’s offering, making it an even more attractive place to visit with friends and family. Imagine enjoying a well-earned drink and treat after taking in all the museum has to offer, and I hope we'll soon see Great British tea parties and picnics in the gardens!
“Our museum already works closely with many charities and community organisations, and I'm keen to see these collaborations develop even further. This will ensure even more people can enjoy and benefit from all our museum has to offer."
Following agreement from Cabinet, funding applications will now be sought with an in-principle agreement for match funding in order to move the refurbishment plans forward.