Watt Institution to reopen after accessibility upgrades

Although work on the lift is continuing and it will not be fully operational at reopening, visitors will be able to explore new exhibitions in the Watt Hall and art gallery, while the James Watt Library will also reopen.

The museum’s exhibition spaces will begin reopening in phases from Saturday, October 10, to coincide with the start of the October school holidays.

The closure also gave staff an opportunity to catalogue, digitise and study the institution’s collections, work that is difficult to carry out during normal opening hours.

Once the building is fully accessible, visitors can expect new displays and a greater number of objects on show.

The reopening comes ahead of the 150th anniversary of the McLean Museum, which first opened on November 3, 1876.

The return of the Watt Hall, Watt Library, McLean Art Gallery and Egyptian Gallery will also allow activities and meetings hosted by the Philosophical Society to resume.

Details of special exhibitions and events marking the museum anniversary are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

The Watt Institution will be open from Wednesday to Saturday, between 10am and 4pm.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s convener of education and communities, said: "I am delighted the Watt Institution is reopening.

"Although the lift is not yet fully operational, it is right that we take the time to do this properly.

"We need to be sympathetic to the listed building and ensure there is no further disruption.

"While the building has been closed, staff have been working hard to bring more of the museum’s vast collection to life, interpreting it for the 21st Century.

"It is also positive news that it is reopening in time for the 150th anniversary of the McLean Museum, which first opened on November 3, 1876.

"I am looking forward to getting back inside and seeing what’s familiar – and what is new – and I’m sure many others are too."