Two buildings that form part of the Poole Museum site – Oakley’s Mill, a Victorian grain warehouse and the Grade 1 Listed Wool Hall – are being preserved with conservation and restoration work.

The work is being funded by the government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, and it is anticipated that it will reduce the museum’s carbon footprint by 25 per cent.

The works include the sympathetic installation 360 solar roof slates for sustainable power, 60 new windows with secondary glazing, a new dormer to accommodate a larger lift and new rooflights.

Purbeck limestone will be used in roof tiles to protect the Wool Hall for future generations.

The works are expected to be complete by mid-December.

Further developments to the museum estate are planned, which will be funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England. These include the development of three new maritime galleries, which will allow more of the museum’s collection to be displayed alongside an increased number of interactive displays. This will allow for more touring exhibitions, innovative education sessions and improved access for all visitors.

The initial work is being carried out by Greendale Construction Ltd. The company’s director, Rob Hooker, said: “Greendale is delighted to be working with Poole Museum on this important project which will not only make this popular museum more inclusive and accessible for all, but also further reduce the building’s carbon footprint through insulating and upgrading areas of Oakley’s Mill and Wool Hall.”

Cllr Beverley Dunlop, cabinet member for Tourism, Culture and Vibrant Places at BCP Council said: “The redevelopment of Poole Museum is a major project to conserve, restore, open up and share Poole’s incredible historic buildings, collections, and stories to more people than ever before. Many local residents and community groups have already been involved in shaping future plans and there are plenty of exciting opportunities for people to get involved and play a part.”