Plans to transform one of the world’s oldest public museum buildings have been unveiled.
The proposals for the History of Science Museum in Oxford aim to make it accessible and inclusive, while preserving it for the future.
Oxford University has launched a public consultation about the refurbishment of the building in Broad Street.
A 3D model and an artist’s impression bird’s eye tour can be seen in Blackwell Hall at the Weston Library from Monday.
A university spokesperson said: “The key aims of the proposals are to make this unique building fully accessible and inclusive for all from the moment visitors step through the entrance on Broad Street, to preserve and restore its historic fabric, and to make it sustainable.
“The team are fully committed to taking care at every stage of the project to conserve and enhance the building’s historic and architectural significance, while transforming it for the third millennium.”
The museum is housed in the Old Ashmolean – said to be the “world’s oldest surviving purpose-built public museum building”.
Originally home to the Ashmolean Museum, the Grade I listed structure was completed in 1682 and opened to the public the following year.
The History of Science Museum, originally called the Lewis Evans Collection, was founded in the same building in 1924 and is celebrating its centenary.
The plans will be on display until 21 July and visitors are invited to share ideas and suggestions on ways to improve them.
