Work is to fully begin on a new cultural and heritage attraction in Plymouth.

Willmott Dixon is set to sign a £22.6 million building and construction contract with the city council on 20 June to develop the History Centre project, which will highlight the story of Plymouth and it's place on the global stage.

In January, the company began delivering enabling works at the site, which has included the erecting of the scaffolding, removal of asbestos and the demolition of some small outbuildings and the post-war extension to the rear of the former Central Library. Overall, the pre-contract agreement has ensured the site is ready for the main construction phase.

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So far, the council has approved the design concepts for a number of the History Centre's new galleries, paving the way for each of the spaces to be developed. These include a natural history gallery featuring a Woolly Mammoth and an 'Active Archive' gallery where visitors can delve into the city's archival heritage.

In addition to its permanent galleries, the History Centre will include a suite of spaces where large-scale exhibitions and high profile artistic projects can be displayed. It will also include areas for research and learning, a shop, food and drink outlets and a public square which will host a range of events and activities throughout the year.

Construction work will begin this summer with completion set for late summer 2019. The fit out of the buildings will then take place ready for the official opening in spring 2020, as part of Plymouth's commemorations for Mayflower 400.

Council Leader Ian Bowyer said: "This is such a major project for the city. Each stage is a major milestone and we're thrilled to be able to continue the relationship we've established with Willmott Dixon. It's such an achievement to embark on this next chapter safe in the knowledge that we are one step closer to delivering this impressive facility for Plymouth."

(LM/MH)