Southampton City Council is pleased to announce the completion of the first phase of a major restoration project at the Tudor House Museum. In March 2007, the repair works totalling £1.9m were embarked upon in an effort to preserve the historic structure in Bugle Street, in preparation for its major redevelopment as a heritage attraction.
The building works, which have been funded by the city council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and English Heritage, have incorporated traditional techniques and replicated materials used in the medieval times.
The end of phase one of this important renovation scheme comes as Southampton launches a campaign to become an international city of culture by 2026. As part of this, the city council is carrying out a consultation to look at how Southampton can make the most of its rich heritage and creative talent.
The improvements to Tudor House are just one reason why there’s never been a better time to invest in Southampton’s cultural offer: the 2012 Olympic Games, Titanic centenary commemorations and the 400th anniversary of the sailing of the Mayflower, are all coming up in the next 20 years.
Councillor John Hannides, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Heritage, said: “There are many cultural attractions scattered across Southampton. Many of these, like Tudor House, are of regional significance and over a million people pass through their doors each year. We want these residents and visitors to help us develop our cultural and heritage offer. That is why we are asking to take part in this consultation.”
He added: “Our aim is to enhance and build on Southampton’s cultural credentials so that we can improve attractions such as Tudor House and bring Southampton’s heritage alive for everyone.”
Southampton already has the building blocks in place to create an impressive cultural offer:
• Its living, breathing open spaces
• The most complete set of original medieval town walls in the country
• A Long heritage as a world port
• A nationally significant cluster of art galleries
• And, rich stories connected to globally significant events, such as Titanic, the transatlantic liners, the Spitfire, Henry V and King Canute.
Consultation flyers will be available in city heritage and leisure venues for people to complete and return with their views on how Southampton can promote its heritage and culture.
Meanwhile, proposals are now being development for the next phase of the Tudor House project to include new visitor facilities including new displays and experiences, which will tell the story of the house and the people who lived and worked there. There will also be an education suite based at the Tudor Merchant’s Hall and a café, as well as full access for people of all abilities.
It’s estimated the second stage of the work will cost around £5.4m. Funding will again come from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the city council and other grants.
Linked Web Site http://www.southampton.gov.uk/leisure/localhistoryandheritage/museums-galleries/tudorhouse.asp
