WORK is being carried out on two historically significant buildings at a Dorset museum.

Poole Museum are investing in conversation and restoration work on the site’s Wool Hall and Oakley’s Mill.

The work, funded by the UK Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, will see the installation of 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 also be used in roof tiles to protect the Wool Hall for future generations.

Chartered Builders and Greendale Construction Limited are on site to complete the project, which is expected to reduce Poole Museum’s carbon footprint by 25 per cent.

Rob Hooker, director at Greendale Construction Limited, 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.”

The work on the much-loved heritage is expected to run until December 2022 and is the first stage of a wider project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England to transform the entire museum estate.

Proposed improvements include the development of three new spectacular maritime galleries enabling the Museum to showcase more of its collections alongside an increased number of interactive displays.

There are also plans for more national touring exhibitions to Poole Museum, and innovative education sessions for children will be organised as well as vibrant events for visitors and local communities.

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.”