Conservation - Preparing for reopening

Amid the excitement of preparing the museum to open its doors once again after being closed for so long, there are many factors the Old Police Cells Museum’s volunteers are keeping in mind and contending with to ensure it is a safe space for both them and visitors.

The coronavirus pandemic has presented many challenges regarding our approach to conservation and to the management of the museum in general; for example, the question of the safety of volunteers whilst working in the museum space.

The costume conservation department, for example, plans to create socially distanced workspaces in which we can undertake our important tasks, separately, in a covid-safe manner. Delegating one stage of the complex conservation process to each costume department volunteer should also help to minimise contact.

Whilst this is an incredibly exciting time following OPCM’s long period of closure, we must all adhere to the government guidelines to ensure the museum can stay open for everyone to enjoy.