Bright future for Rugby Art Gallery and Museum as modernisation project begins

An exciting new chapter is underway for the Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, as Rugby Borough Council launches an ambitious project to explore modernising and reconfiguring the much-loved cultural venue.

Opened in 2000, the purpose-built Rugby Art Gallery and Museum is home to the borough council’s art gallery, museum and visitor centre, alongside the county council’s library. Accredited by Arts Council England, the venue welcomes more than 100,000 visitors each year and plays a central role in the town’s cultural life.

Subject to feasibility studies and funding, the project could transform the building to make it more accessible, improve its environmental performance and create flexible new spaces to better showcase collections, host events and deliver cultural and educational programmes. The plans would also help safeguard the rich heritage assets cared for by the service for future generations.

Now, residents and visitors are being invited to help shape its future.

The museum has launched a new audience survey to better understand how people use the building, what they value most and what improvements they would like to see. Feedback will help inform options for reconfiguring the space to meet changing needs and expectations, ensuring the venue continues to thrive in the years ahead. Rugby Art Gallery and Museum has commissioned PRS Architects to undertake this work. PRS Architects has a wealth of experience in delivering a range of successful projects across cultural and heritage sites.

The survey, asks what the venue does well, what could be improved, what might be missing and how the building could work better for everyone.

Cllr Maggie O’Rourke, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for Partnerships and Wellbeing, said: “Rugby Art Gallery and Museum is one of our town’s cultural jewels. For 25 years it has welcomed residents, families, schools and visitors through its doors to explore art, heritage and learning.

“We want to make sure it remains vibrant, inclusive and fit for the future. This project gives us the opportunity to reimagine how the building works, improve its sustainability and create spaces that are even more welcoming and accessible.

“Most importantly, we want our community to help shape that vision. I would encourage everyone to take part in the survey and tell us what matters most to them.”

Cllr Neil Sandison, Rugby Borough Council Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Partnerships and Wellbeing, said: “Rugby Art Gallery and Museum sits at the heart of our community life.

“As we look to the future, it is vital that the building reflects modern expectations. 

“This is an exciting opportunity to build on what already works well and make it even better. We look forward to hearing from as many people as possible.” 

To find out more and take part in the survey, drop into the Rugby Art Gallery and Museum or visit www.rugby.gov.uk/w/modernising-ragm