BRIDPORT Museum's project team is celebrating after securing £841,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Thanks to the grant the museum will be undergoing a complete transformation in a £1.3 million redevelopment.

The project, which is the culmination of more than two years’ research and development, will include urgent repair and restoration to the museum building itself, followed by a complete redisplay of all museum galleries.

The history of the local rope and net industry will be at the heart of the new displays, alongside dedicated spaces showcasing the museum’s geology and archaeology collections.

George Streatfeild, chairman of Bridport Museum Trust said: "I am really excited that with both Lottery money and local support we have the opportunity to make Bridport Museum a unique and special part of the area’s heritage; an attraction and learning centre for schools, locals and visitors. This project will give the town the museum it deserves and help to safeguard its future."

Curator Emily Hicks added: "We are hugely grateful to everyone who has supported us in developing this project, to the volunteers and the local groups and individuals who have all contributed.

"It has really shown that Bridport Museum is at the heart of the community. We have a fantastic collection, with many areas of national significance. This project will enable us to tell not only the story of our local area, but to celebrate the influence it has had both nationally and internationally.

"Our aim is to create a museum for the future, for everyone to enjoy."

There will be plenty for visitors of all ages to see and do. Stories from local people and activities for children will be integrated into the new displays, machinery will be restored to working condition and temporary exhibitions will explore specific subjects in more depth. There will also be opportunities for local groups to curate their own exhibitions.

Central to the plans is ensuring that the museum is fully accessible, a new lift will enable all visitors to view displays on the first floor and an accessible toilet will also include baby changing facilities. Entrance will remain free of charge. The shop will be improved, to support operating costs, and new heating will mean that the museum can open all year round, attracting more visitors.

Project manager, Crystal Johnson said: "It is a testament to the town and the importance of its history, that Bridport has, once again, secured significant funding for an important heritage project. There will be lots of opportunities for the local community, schools and other groups to get involved, to help inform and shape the way in which we tell our story.

"We will be working closely with other projects in the town and have a number of collaborative activities and events already planned. This is an amazing opportunity for the town to work together to fully celebrate our heritage."

The total cost of the project is £1.3 million. The museum has already secured support from Bridport Town Council, West Dorset District Council, Dorset County Council, the Fine Family Foundation and the Alice Ellen Cooper Dean Charitable Trust.

There is still just under £100,000 to be raised. To find out more, to get involved or simply to keep up to date on the project progress visit bridportmuseum.org.uk

Work will begin on the building in September as the museum closes for its usual winter break. The project will be completed in time to open for Spring 2017.