Harris announces reopening date after four-year revamp

The Harris will reopen on 28 September after a £19m revamp, Preston City Council has announced.

The venue in the centre of Preston, which is housed in a Grade I-Listed building, has been closed since 2021. The redevelopment has included the removal of asbestos from the roof, repairs to the building's historic structure, and improvements to heating, lighting and accessibility.

The Harris will reopen with new galleries, learning spaces, cafe and shop. The offer will include an exhibition programme and library service as well as heritage tours.

Preston City Council is hoping the venue will attract up to half a million visitors each year. About 350,000 people a year visited the Harris before it closed for the redevelopment.

Councillor Anna Hindle, cabinet member for culture and arts at Preston City Council, said: “This incredible transformation will not only safeguard our heritage but also create a vibrant, inclusive space that inspires creativity, learning and connection for generations to come

“We’re immensely grateful to all our funding partners and can’t wait to welcome residents and visitors alike back through the doors of this much-loved building.”

Funders for the project include Preston City Council, National Lottery Heritage Fund, the UK Government’s Towns Fund and Lancashire County Council.

The Harris will also have a new logo, brand identity and website.

Ralph Appelbaum Associates has done the exhibition design while Buttress is the architect.