Image: Harris Museum, Preston (Francis C. Franklin / CC-BY-SA-3.0)
The Preston museum is set to reopen for the first time since 2021, after major restoration funded by council, lottery and government.
The Harris museum in Preston is to reopen to the public on 28 September 2025, completing a multi-million pound restoration project.
The museum closed in 2021 for the comprehensive refurbishment project, known as “The Harris Your Place”.
Originally due to reopen last year, the reported £16m project was extended to spring 2025 after the discovery of unexpected asbestos, required boiler works and additional fire safety works.
Completed infrastructure improvements include upgrades to heating, lighting, accessibility features, and safety systems.
The restoration work has included the asbestos removal and conservation of the building, alongside the introduction of new exhibitions, learning spaces, family facilities, a café and shop, and heritage tours.
The Harris said it will reopen its doors “as a bold, reimagined space for everyone. Where art, culture, history, learning and community come together like never before.”
Funding has been provided by Preston City Council, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the UK Government’s Towns Fund, Lancashire County Council and many other partners.
Beyond the restoration, its strategy has incorporated community consultation and workshops with local residents, including young people. The Harris has worked with Preston-based agency Bird to develop a new visual identity, including a redesigned logo and website.
The museum said in its announcement: “…we’ve rethought what it means to be a truly inclusive cultural space in the heart of Preston.”
“Expect a Harris that feels both familiar and fresh. Where the past and future meet in surprising, exciting ways.”
The institution projects annual visitor numbers of 450,000, representing an increase of 100,000 compared to pre-closure figures in 2021.
More programming details are expected ahead of the September opening date.
