The historic Nicholson Institute in Leek has officially re-opened following a £3.8m project to improve the museum, art gallery and library as well as returning its lower ground floor to use as an arts studio.
The Grade-II listed building, which opened in 1884, was built by silk manufacturer, philanthropist and Leek resident Joshua Nicholson as a free library, art gallery, museum and art school.
Today the building is held in trust by Staffordshire County Council and is still home to the cultural offerings it was built for.
The Nicholson family has continued its long association with Leek and Joshua’s great-great grandson Martin Taylor and his wife Sue were guests of honour at the official reopening event.
“The Nicholson Institute is amongst the most important buildings in the Moorlands and one with a proud history of providing residents and visitors with the cultural amenities we still enjoy here today,” said Staffordshire Moorlands District Council leader Cllr Mike Gledhill.
“The investment we’ve made in improving those amenities and making them accessible to modern day audiences in means we’re able to safeguard the building’s future whilst remaining true to the purpose for which it was originally built.”
“It was a particular pleasure to have Martin and Sue with us to celebrate the re-opening and the family’s enduring links with our town.”
A mural by local artist Robert Timmis has also been restored by expert conservationists and can now be seen by from the stairs leading from the library to the museum and art gallery.
“Leek Library in the Nicholson Institute is an important part of the local community and the history of the town, so I’m delighted to see it officially re-open,” said Staffordshire County Council cabinet member for communities and culture Cllr Patrick Allen.
“The refurbishment has created a modern and welcoming space that serves as a vibrant community hub where people can read, learn, meet others and access valuable services.”
The new layout allows the library to be a flexible space and increase opportunities for community events and activities, he added.
The completion of the project marks the end of the wider regeneration of a variety of sites in Leek town centre which has also seen an overhaul of the town’s leisure centre and a major refurbishment of its indoor markets.
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