Future Development

The BPMA is working to establish a new centre to display our archive and museum collections, with space for learning, events and activities. This page will be updated whenever we have significant new information about this major project.

Finding a new site

We have been actively looking at various options over the past two years for a site that suits our needs. We need a location that we can afford, in an accessible location, and large enough to be sustainable in the long term. This has not been an easy search! We have stayed as flexible as possible to find the best available solution.

After looking at different options we are now currently working on plans for a location that we think matches our criteria. This would be part of an exciting new development which, if it goes ahead, will provide us with a fitting home for the nation's postal heritage. The planning process associated with the development we hope to be part of is currently confidential and we are not able to say any more until it is made public. However, as soon as we can, we will.

Watch this space for how we are getting on in finding a new home. We hope to make an announcement during 2008.

Preparations behind the scenes

There are many things that we are already working on to prepare for a move to a new site:

• Cataloguing all the collections so we know exactly what material we hold, and how we can use it;
• Doing a feasibility study and options appraisal for this and other possible sites;
• Developing a brief for architects based on our specifications for a new site;
  
• Gathering 'Evidence of need' for a new postal heritage centre i.e. finding out if people want such a thing (so far, it looks like you do!);
  
• More detailed consultation with current and future users as to what you want from the BPMA;
  
• Researching National Curriculum links in the collections to further demonstrate our value for learning;
  
• Developing potential storylines for new displays;
  
• Working with new user groups, to widen awareness of our work: we are presently working on projects with school groups, events for families and for Royal Mail staff.
  

So, when we are able to announce the direction we are heading, things will already be well underway. We trust it will be worth the wait!

Don't forget: there is plenty happening at the BPMA right now. Check out News and What's On for the latest stories and events.