This is a major step forward in helping Hereford’s new museum and art gallery to become one of the most energy-efficient heritage public buildings in the UK.

The £1 million award will improve the warmth and efficiency of the redeveloped museum building by providing for a new low carbon heating system, ventilation and insulation.

The cost of fossil fuel heating is often lower than low carbon alternatives. This grant seeks to overcome this challenge by helping to fund low carbon heating systems.

It will mean that Hereford Museum and Art Gallery will be the first UK-based museum to be renovated to EnerPHit environmental standards – the top international standard for energy-efficient retrofits – which will lead to potential energy cost savings of 75-90%.

Councillor Harry Bramer, Cabinet Member for Community Services and Assets, said:

This is wonderful news and a giant step forward in our plans to ensure that Hereford’s new Museum and Art Gallery is not only a vibrant and exciting space for visitors but also meets the highest standards in terms of energy efficiency.

Following the appointment of Vinci Building as main contractor to the project (announced last month), excellent progress is being made and the new museum and art gallery is expected to be open to the public in 2027.

Meanwhile visitors can continue to engage with Herefordshire Museums & Galleries through the full programme of events being held at Old House Hereford and the History Store. Full details are available on Herefordshire Museums & Galleries Facebook page.