The first stage in the £11.6million redevelopment of the Beaney Institute gets under way with the building’s closure to the public on Saturday.

A new rear extension will see the museum and library services transformed, with improved access and more space for services, displays and books. Work is due to finish in the summer of 2011.

Funding for the project has come from both the Heritage Lottery Fund, through a grant of £5.98million, with further funding from the South East England Development Agency.

Orange Street car park will close on Friday to allow construction work to take place.

Click here for more information or call project manager Kate Greenaway on 01227 862592.