BRIDPORT Museum has had a £1.3 million redevelopment – but it will still be free to go in and now plans to open all year round. 

The five-year-long project has enabled a complete internal modernisation of the galleries making them innovative and interactive.

Curator Emily Hicks said: “One of the stars of the museum will be the Ackerman netting loom, which has been restored to full working glory with the support of Geoff and David Ackerman. A working ropewalk has also been built to enable visitors to see rope being made.

“After so many years of planning I am thrilled to see these remarkable and positive changes to Bridport Museum. 

“Our aim has always been to create a museum that does justice to the town - one that is as welcoming and friendly as Bridport itself. The great news is that Bridport Museum will still be free for all to enjoy and we will now be open all year round.”

In the lead-up to the grand reopening, the museum is organising the ‘Season of Heritage’ festival throughout May.

The festival consists of a busy programme of fun events across the local area celebrating the town’s heritage.

The museum chairman George Streatfeild said: “More than 300 people have been involved in this project - from our volunteers, to conservation specialists, to the members of the public who helped us create the designs. It really will be a museum about Bridport, by Bridport, for Bridport.”

To find out more like their Facebook page BridportMuseum, or follow them on Twitter @bridportmuseum.

For Season of Heritage events, check out the website bridportheritage.co.uk/

The museum has been raising money to go with its grants, including Heritage Lottery funding – it has run a £20,000 crowdfunding campaign, appealed for more friends and volunteers and invited people to adopt or donate an object.

The money raised helped ensure the museum is fully accessible. 

A new lift will allow all visitors to view displays on the first floor and an accessible toilet will 
also include baby changing facilities.