Natural history museum reopens after masonry fall.
Colchester’s Natural History Museum has reopened following a year-long closure due to fallen masonry.
The former Old Saints Church building, which has housed the museum since 1958, was closed so that contractors may inspect and secure the historical church tower.
The tower is still being entirely repaired, but the museum has reopened with a reduced capacity and restricted access at the rear of the Grade II listed structure.
Meanwhile, Colchester City Council has requested for additional funds from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to support a projected £5 million museum renovation.
‘Exciting redevelopment’
The council stated that masonry fell from the tower structure last year. The tower is still shrouded to protect it during the winter, and suggestions for full repair are being worked on.
“It’s fantastic to see the Natural History Museum reopen, even with limited access,” said Lee Scordis, Colchester City Council’s Labour portfolio holder for culture, history, and the environment.
“This is a key step in our ongoing efforts to repair and improve the building and deliver an exciting redevelopment that will benefit residents and visitors for years to come.”
Last year, the council got roughly £300,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to help with thorough planning for the museum’s entire redevelopment.
The museum is scheduled to close in 2027 for redevelopment work, which would rehabilitate the structure and surrounding outdoor space, and return in 2029.
The nave and chancel of All Saints Church, located on Queen Street, are thought to date back to Norman times.
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