Ely Museum welcomed more than 700 people through their doors as they revealed plans for their £2.2 million expansion plans on June 2 and 3.
The plans include expanding the current museum building as it is “getting old”. The extension would then allow the museum to “increase capacity and hold more events”.
Staff gave members of the public tours of the current site, guests gave talks on local heritage and the galleries were open to explore.
A spokesman said: “We’ve had an amazing 700 visitors this weekend to our open days at Ely Museum.
“Thank you so much to all who came, explored our galleries, enjoyed tours and talks, gave useful suggestions, offered their time and donated so generously.
Elie Hughes, museum curator said: “This is such exciting news for Ely Museum.
“The support of the Heritage Lottery Fund means that the museum is one step closer to becoming an exciting twenty first century heritage attraction for the local area and its people.”
Robyn Llewellyn, head of Heritage Lottery Fund East of England, said: “From much-needed space and reinvigorated displays, to safeguarding existing collections and adding new voices from the community – this project is set to transform Ely Museum for a 21st century audience.
“Our support has been made possible by National Lottery players so we’re particularly pleased that this project has a real focus on enabling communities to explore the heritage held at the museum and to play a vital role in its future.
“We look forward to seeing the plans develop.”
Members of staff plan to transform the museum over the next four years and to work closer with local communities.
The spokesman added: “We also would like to extend a huge thank you to our many volunteers, museum trustees, our architect Hana from HAT Projects who gave a talk on Saturday, and all the staff who made this weekend possible.
“The museum will become a heritage hub for locals and tourists, introducing them to the history of the area.
“New galleries, a series of events and exhibitions and welcoming visitor facilities will create an exciting destination for local families, schools and visitors to the area while resources and trails will encourage people to explore the district further.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here