Natural History Museum reopens after year-long closure

The Natural History Museum in Colchester has reopened to visitors following a year-long closure. The building was closed to allow contractors to assess and make safe the historic church tower, after masonry fell from the structure last year. 

While the tower remains wrapped to protect it from the weather, the museum is now open with reduced capacity and restricted access at the rear. Safety remains the highest priority, and work will continue on proposals to fully repair the tower. 

In parallel, Colchester City Council is progressing its application for second-round funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This follows a successful £296,725 development grant awarded last year, which has supported detailed planning for a proposed £5 million transformation of the museum. 

Cllr Lee Scordis, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Environment, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Natural History Museum reopen, even with limited access. This is a key step in our ongoing efforts to repair and improve the building and deliver an exciting redevelopment that will benefit residents and visitors for years to come.” 

Further updates will be shared as the redevelopment progresses.