Free Entry for all as The Beacon’s re-development gets underway

The first phase of The Beacon’s redevelopment is underway with removal of over 400 artefacts from the exhibitions for conservation and restoration before going back on display next summer.

Conservation forms a major part of the redevelopment of The Beacon which will see all 5 museum floors redesigned and interpreted for today’s audiences, and include many items which have not been on show before.

The objects will be collected by specialist technicians from Lancashire Conservation Studios (part of Lancashire Museum Services), and include:
  • A Sedan Chair
  • Regimental and High Sheriff’s Uniforms and other textiles –from over 100years ago
  • Major Paintings currently on show by celebrated artists such as Matthias Read and James Cranke, and others which are currently not able to be displayed due to their unstable condition
  • Sea-faring items, pottery and Roman archaeological artefacts.

Michelle Kelly, Curator at The Beacon said,

“It is really exciting that we have the opportunity to have all these objects conserved. However, we want to make it clear that conservation does not mean that objects will be returned in mint condition, but often the intention is to stabilise them for future generations to study and enjoy”.

As a last chance for everybody to see The Beacon collection in its current format, entrance to the museum will be free for everybody from 7 November.

Sue Palmer, Beacon Manager said,

“I am delighted that we have the chance to go free for a while, so the people of Copeland can come and see The Beacon before it changes.”

Although many objects are being taken away for conservation this is only a small percentage of the whole collection which means that The Beacon will still offer a great day out to our visitors.

Due to substantial building works and alterations, parts of The Beacon will become inaccessible to the public for a short time during 2007.