The Museum Director introduced the report and explained that the time estimate for completing refurbishment of the Archaeology Gallery was three-and-a-half years. Assumptions made included that the current opening hours and staffing levels at the museum would be retained.

The timeline outlined in the report was explained in further detail and it was highlighted that the programme would need to be revised throughout the project. The first action for the governance review was underway, and would identify any changes that could affect the decision made by the Committee in 2017 to retain direct governance of the museum.

In response to questions, the Museums Director confirmed that visitors to the museum would be able to pass through the gallery for as long as possible while work was carried out to maintain visibility of the refurbishment.  The design work should start in March 2022, which would enable a more detailed project plan to be written. A project steering group would be recruited to include Committee Members and updates could be reported back regularly.

RESOLVED: That the timescales for the gallery refurbishment and the museum’s governance review be noted.

Note: Councillor Forecast arrived during this item.