The National Science and Media Museum in Bradford has announced that its reopening has been delayed until 2025 due to a major refurbishment project. Originally, it was set to reopen this summer in preparation for Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture next year. However, due to delays in the excavation of a new lift, the reopening will now happen in two phases.
The building itself will reopen in early 2025, with the new ‘Sound and Vision’ galleries to follow later in the year. Jo Quinton-Tulloch, director of the National Science and Media Museum, stated that having an additional passenger lift is crucial for the museum’s transformation and ability to welcome more visitors in the future. Despite encountering unexpected challenges during the excavation process, the ‘Sound and Vision’ project will ensure that the museum is future-proofed for decades to come.
The new ‘Sound and Vision’ galleries are described as dynamic, interactive, and inspiring. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with various exhibits, such as seeing the first photographic image, trying their hand at sound engineering, exploring a local radio station studio, and experiencing a live art installation. Helen Featherstone, north of England director at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, expressed enthusiasm for the museum’s transformation, emphasizing its importance as a cultural attraction and a valuable resource for future generations.
Overall, the refurbishment and enhancement of the National Science and Media Museum aim to solidify its status as both a national and local treasure, ensuring its longevity and relevance for years to come. The museum’s reopening in 2025 is eagerly anticipated
