The National Science and Media Museum has set its sights on a grand reopening in 2025, coinciding with the UK City of Culture celebrations in the Bradford district. After temporarily closing its doors in June last year for a monumental transformation, the museum is gearing up for an exhilarating comeback, promising visitors an immersive experience like never before.
Initially expected to reopen this summer, unforeseen delays in the excavation of an additional passenger lift shaft have prompted a revised timeline. As a result, the museum will open in two phases, with the building welcoming visitors at the beginning of the City of Culture year, followed by the launch of the new Sound and Vision galleries later in 2025.
Commenting on the plans, Jo Quinton-Tulloch, Director of the National Science and Media Museum, expressed enthusiasm for the museum’s evolution, stating, “Our new Sound and Vision galleries will completely transform the museum’s visitor offer by showcasing our incredible collections and ensuring visitors can find stories that resonate with them.”
Despite challenges encountered during the excavation process, Jo emphasized the long-term benefits of the project, affirming its role in future-proofing the museum for generations to come. She added, “Having an additional passenger lift is a crucial part of our transformation that will enable us to welcome many more visitors in 2025 and beyond.”
The museum’s new gallery designs promise dynamic, interactive, and inspiring spaces, reflecting the diverse facets of its collections. From photography to video gaming, visitors can explore the profound impact of sound and image technologies on our lives. Jo highlighted the museum’s collaboration with local communities to ensure that the galleries reflect the creativity and diversity of Bradford, the museum’s home city.
Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, expressed excitement about the project’s progress, emphasizing its significance in enhancing access to science and media experiences for generations to come. She stated, “It is incredibly exciting to see the designs of the new gallery spaces as part of the Sound and Vision project, which we’re thrilled to be supporting thanks to National Lottery players.”
Volunteers and the museum’s Youth Forum have played integral roles in shaping the project, contributing valuable insights and perspectives. Through collaborative workshops and consultations, they have helped shape gallery designs, select objects, and explore themes such as identity and photography.
Supported by a £6 million capital investment, the Sound and Vision Project has received funding from various sources, including The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the DCMS/Wolfson Museums and Galleries Improvement Fund 2022-24, Bradford Council, and the Science Museum Group.
As the museum prepares for its much-anticipated reopening, visitors can stay informed about the project’s progress and access the latest FAQs on the museum’s website. With immersive experiences, interactive installations, and engaging exhibitions on the horizon, the National Science and Media Museum is poised to captivate audiences anew in 2025.
