Construction Begins On The Isles of Scilly Cultural Centre And Museum Project

Construction has officially begun on the Isles of Scilly Cultural Centre and Museum, with work underway to restore and expand the historic Town Hall in Hugh Town, St Mary’s. Led by construction firm Stepnell, the £15 million project aims to rejuvenate the building, transforming it into a vibrant community hub, with the anticipated completion set for summer 2026.

A New Chapter for the Isles of Scilly

This redevelopment, a collaboration between the Council of the Isles of Scilly, Scilly Arts & Heritage, and the Isles of Scilly Museum Association, is set to create a versatile space for live performances, theatre, and community events. The project will also provide a new home for the Isles of Scilly Museum, with additional features including a café offering panoramic views of Porthcressa beach.

The historic Town Hall, which has long been a focal point for the community, is being restored and expanded with designs from award-winning architects Purcell. The fully accessible facility will become a year-round venue, benefitting both residents and visitors. You can view the plans for the building on the Isles of Scilly Cultural Centre and Museum website.

Backing From National and Local Funding

The project has received significant support from several funding bodies, including the UK Government, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Good Growth Shared Prosperity Fund, and Arts Council England. The Council of the Isles of Scilly is working in close partnership with Scilly Arts & Heritage, the newly formed charitable trust that will manage the centre once construction is complete.

A key contributor to the project, Cornwall Council, has invested over £3.4 million in Good Growth funding. Cllr Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for economy, noted the potential for this project to create a lasting legacy, enhancing both the local economy and cultural life on the islands.

Preserving Heritage and Building Community

With this development, the islands are set to gain a space that will not only celebrate their rich heritage but also provide a much-needed venue for community activities and cultural gatherings. The project is hailed as a vital step in preserving the islands’ unique culture while offering new opportunities for residents and visitors to come together.

Further details about the funding and the organisations involved can be found on the websites of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The next few years promise to bring significant changes to the Isles of Scilly as this ambitious cultural centre and museum begins to take shape, with completion eagerly anticipated by summer 2026.