Morgan Sindall Construction has commenced the next phase of a £4.3 million restoration project at the Grade II listed Southampton City Art Gallery, marking a significant step in the preservation of the city's cultural heritage.

The tier-one contractor, working in partnership with Hampshire County Council and Southampton City Council, began the initial phase of the restoration in July 2024. The project involves extensive re-roofing and refurbishment works across multiple phases, while ensuring minimal disruption to the connected civic facilities.

During the first phase, a significant engineering achievement was realised with the installation of one of the UK's largest single-span independent scaffolded roof systems, spanning the West Wing Galleries. This allowed for the removal of existing ventilation plant, asphalt roofing, and roof lights, while protecting the gallery's nationally important art collection.

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The refurbishment has also included the installation of insulated asphalt roofing and the conservation of double-glazed rooflights, designed to enhance the building's sustainability while preserving its historic character. A new air-conditioning system, integrated with the city's geothermal infrastructure, was also installed to ensure stable climate conditions and improve energy efficiency.

With the West Wing phase nearing completion, refurbishment will now begin on the main and East Wing galleries, including reglazing works. The West Wing will gradually reopen from 5 April, while the main and East Wing galleries are scheduled to reopen in early 2026.

The project has been supported by a £2.23 million grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport's Museum Estate and Development (MEND) Fund, administered by Arts Council England.

Clifford Kinch, Area Director at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: "We are extremely proud be delivering this significant restoration project at Southampton City Art Gallery, which is about more than just repairs and upgrades - it's about safeguarding a vital cultural landmark for future generations."

Councillor Lorna Fielker, Leader of the Council, said: "We're thrilled this work can take place with the support of DCMS and ACE funding to preserve this nationally important gallery."

Phil Gibby, Area Director, Arts Council England, South West, said: "Southampton is a place of strategic importance to Arts Council England and we're proud to invest in the City Art Gallery's journey towards a fully accessible public collection."