Harris redevelopment submits bid for £4.5m lottery funding

The team behind the plan to redevelop Preston's Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library has submitted a bid to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for £4.5m to deliver the scheme.

Together, Preston City Council and Lancashire County Council hope to see the Harris become the UK’s first blended museum, art gallery and library, whilst also making the building more accessible and welcoming an additional 100,000 visitors per year.

Works will return the building to its original splendour through the removal of unsympathetic interventions, and also improve conditions in which precious collections are stored and displayed.

Councillor Peter Kelly, cabinet member for leisure and culture at Preston City Council, said: "The Harris is at the heart of Preston - geographically and figuratively - which is why this is a cornerstone project for our city.

"If approved, the works will be transformational for Preston – not only conserving this precious building and creating a cultural attraction fit for the future – but also unlocking potential in the Harris Quarter and the city as a whole."

The National Lottery Heritage Fund will now consider the plans and supporting evidence. It has until the end of March 2021 to make a final decision as to whether the Harris should receive the £4.5m Round 2 funding to deliver the project.

• For further Lancashire business news, advice and analysis subscribe to Lancashire Business View or join the LBV Hub from just £2.50 per month. Click here to subscribe now.