A MUSEUM has applied for permission to carry out “opening up works” to develop the design of a “subsequent larger project” across the building’s estate.

Poole Museum, housed in Oakley’s Mill, a grade 2 listed building, wants to carry out the investigative work which will then determine subsequent works focussing on the restoration and conservation and development of new displays.

A design and access statement said: “This Listed Building Application is for a series of investigative opening up works to help further determine the condition and build-up of the existing heritage across the Poole Museum estate.

“The results of the opening up works will directly inform the design development of the ‘Our Museum’ project and lead to a better outcome with a lower impact on the historic fabric.

“Following inspection of the opening up works by specialist consultants, all holes will be made good; existing materials and finishes will be reinstated. Where removed materials cannot be reinstated, a matching material will be used in its place.”

Work will begin on the ground floor of Wool Hall and will determine the existing floor build-up.

The ‘Our Museum’ project proposes raising the lowered section of the floor to form a “continuous and accessibly ground level”.

Also in Wool Hall, the opening up work will remove an area of existing roof tiles to reveal the roof build-up, enabling developers to assess to feasibility of upgrading them.

Builders will also investigate the lift shaft in Oakley’s Mill, with the intention of enlarging it.

Finally, the second-floor floor boards in Oakley’s Mill will be examined as the floor structures are “very bouncy”.

The statement said: “Revealing the floor boards will allow the structural engineer to develop proposals for stiffening the floor with minimal impact to the existing heritage.”

It concluded: “Socially, the development should aim to provide the maximum benefit to the local community and to visitors from near and far, promote social value, and offer social rewards and learning opportunities to staff and volunteers.”