Leicester’s Jewry Wall Museum and Preston’s Harris Museum have been delayed by the recent collapse of Beck Interiors and Elmwood Projects
The projects affected by the recent collapse of two fit-out companies are beginning to emerge.
The opening of Leicester’s Jewry Wall Museum and Visitor Centre – which is currently under-going a multi-million pound transformation – has been delayed following the collapse of Elmwood Projects Ltd.
The Glasgow-based fit-out company Elmwood Projects called in liquidators last month, becoming the second in the span of a few months to close its doors.
The company was commissioned by Leicester City Council to design and manufacture the exhibition and displays for the centre.
The company had been providing the design, build and installation of exhibition cases, large mosaic displays, object mounts and some of the audio-visual elements for the centre.
Richard Sword, strategic director for city developments and neighbourhoods at Leicester City Council said: “We are grateful that Elmwood had already completed most of the work we had commissioned.”
“At this point it is difficult to say exactly how this will affect the opening date and our costs, but I am hopeful we can resolve this without too much of an impact.”
Following the loss of the first contractor, the council had been working towards an opening date of January 2025. It said it is now more likely this will be next summer.
Also pushed back is the reopening of Preston’s Harris Museum, as its £16m revamp is delayed by Beck Interiors Ltd.
The company was originally set to lead the design and manufacturing of the new Harris displays, library shelving, exhibition displays and interior design of the spaces.
In July the fit-out specialist, which has a long history of work with major museums and galleries, filed notice of intention to appoint administrators.
Originally due to reopen this year, the Harris is now set to open its doors next spring, after the discovery of unexpected asbestos, required boiler works and additional fire safety works.
The authority’s cabinet member for Arts and Culture, councillor Anna Hindle told the BBC: “We are extremely disappointed about the news that Beck Interiors Ltd have gone into administration.”
She added: “We are working hard behind the scenes to secure a replacement specialist fit out contractor. We will provide an update on the situation once we have appointed a replacement contractor.”
