The new London Museum is one of Europe’s largest cultural infrastructure projects, read on for the latest update.
The museum’s permanent galleries in the formerly-derelict Victorian General Market are due to open in 2026. The 1960s Poultry Market, home to the museum’s temporary exhibitions, collection stores and learning centre, is scheduled to open in 2028.
Substantial restoration efforts and early works in the General Market are already complete and work is underway to frame the internal spaces. In Autumn 2023, a three-metre-wide glass oculus was craned in to become the centre piece of the General Market’s dome roof, and the four-year-long restoration of the Poultry Market’s copper roof was successfully completed by hand by coppersmith Chris Johnson (83yrs), an apprentice on the original 1960s build. Having gained vacant possession of the Poultry Market in September 2023, interior restorations are now underway, including work to connect the ground floor and basement levels.
The London Museum will play a key role in the transformation of Smithfield, sitting at the heart of a dynamic new cultural quarter. It will support a host of independent small businesses around its perimeter, supporting economic growth and increasing employment and creative opportunities in the local area. Already more than 70,000 Londoners have been involved in the shaping and creation of the new museum, and this number is set to rise to 100,000 by completion.
Photo Creds: Asif Khan Studio Mir.