Work is continuing apace on the essential restoration and redevelopment of the Residents’ Block at Ripon Workhouse Museum, part of our £3.3m Inspiration for a Fairer Future project.
We’re pleased to share that plumbing and electrical works on the ground floor are now largely complete, laying vital foundations for the next stages of the transformation. The team has made great progress, especially considering the weather hasn’t been on our side – this January was 17% wetter than in previous years!
From next week, specialist teams will begin the careful replacement and renovation of the historic heritage windows, ensuring they’re preserved for future generations while meeting modern standards.
Structural modifications are well underway, including preparations for a new lift to improve accessibility throughout the building.
We’re also starting to reveal and reinstate historic details – from the Master and Matron’s sitting room, original fireplaces and wall and floor coverings, to the opening up of long-closed corners and rooms and work on the staircases that once connected daily life in the building.
And, as you might expect in a building with such a long and layered history… the site manager and members of the team have reported hearing unexplained footsteps in what was once the old men’s dormitory. History has a way of making its presence felt.
We look forward to sharing more updates as this important heritage building is carefully and lovingly brought back to life for visitors to enjoy.
Our Inspiration for a Fairer Future project is made possible with @The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we plan to breathe new life into the Workhouse Museum & Garden, conserve our heritage, transform the visitor experience and welcome new, diverse audiences to our three museums – some of Ripon’s most important heritage buildings.