Leek’s landmark Nicholson Institute will welcome visitors back later this month following a major refurbishment project designed to breathe new life into the historic building.

The museum and library are due to reopen on Monday 21 September after extensive work to modernise the facilities, enhance visitor experiences and bring the building’s lower ground floor back into public use. The project forms part of the wider regeneration of Leek town centre, which has also included investment in MyActive Leek and the town’s indoor markets.

Delivered by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council in partnership with Staffordshire County Council, the scheme has reimagined the museum space, redesigned the library and created a new arts studio on the lower ground floor. The project has also seen the restoration of the building’s historic Robert Timmis murals and the installation of public Wi-Fi throughout the venue.

Councillor Matt Swindlehurst, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, said he was delighted that people would soon be returning to the Nicholson.

He explained that the refreshed spaces had been given a contemporary feel while respecting the heritage of the Grade II*-listed building, helping to ensure the town continues to offer strong cultural, leisure and retail opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

The library has been redesigned to provide a modern, flexible space for readers, learners and families, while the museum has been refreshed to create new visitor experiences and improved exhibition opportunities. 

Although the museum and library will reopen this month, the Nicholson’s art gallery is expected to welcome visitors back in October following the completion of further preparations. 

The District Council is also working with the Friends of the Nicholson Institute group to develop a future programme of events and activities for the museum and gallery, with further details set to be announced in the coming weeks. 

More details will be announced, including for the opening of the art gallery, in the coming weeks but if you are interested in joining the Friends please email the group directly at  info@nicholsonmuseum.org or follow them on Facebook @NicholsonMuseumAndArtGallery for the latest updates.