WARRINGTON Museum will reopen to visitors next week.

The museum and art gallery has announced that it will be back open on Wednesday, July 8, with social distancing measures in place.

It has been shut since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Safety measures in place include a one-way system and associated signage, the removal of furniture and interactive equipment, a limit of visitor number and the introduction of free pre-booked slots.

Several hand sanitiser stations have been installed, while the building will also be regularly deep cleaned.

Slots are available now online for up to five members of one household, with visitors asked to arrive at the Bold Street entrance at their allotted time and join a short queue.

But Culture Warrington says that the Parr Hall and Pyramid Arts Centre will remain closed ‘until further notice’.

Managing director Emma Hutchinson said: “The health and wellbeing of our customers remains of paramount importance to us at Culture Warrington, and we’ve been working hard throughout the closure to make the necessary preparations to provide a safe space for all.

“We understand that this is still an uncertain time for many, but we are confident that the new measures we have put in place will make our venue a safe and enjoyable place to visit.

“We’re very excited to welcome back our visitors, and have one or two exciting new things for them to see – including a remarkable addition to Derek Dick’s fascinating exhibition Undivinable, which pays tribute to the heroic efforts of NHS staff during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Other exhibitions currently running at Warrington Museum include Not All Who Wander Are Lost by Creative Remedies and Jan Newhouse’s 10,000 Steps.

New exhibits from internationally-renowned artist Susan Stockwell and Priestley College will feature over the coming months.

An ‘immersive’ new app for the museum will also be launched.

Warrington Borough Council’s executive board member for culture Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, said: “Cultural venues play an important part in a thriving town centre, so as Warrington gets back to business I’m delighted that our museum and art gallery is opening its doors to the public again.

“A huge amount of work has gone into making sure the venue is a safe, welcoming and comfortable place for all.

“Getting involved in cultural activities can be so beneficial to our wellbeing in these challenging times.

“I’m looking forward to our museum and art gallery once more playing a central role in connecting local people with art, culture and heritage.”