Latest plans on track for major development at National Railway Museum
A Reserved Matters planning application has been lodged for the National Railway Museum’s (NRM) plans for a new Central Hall, part of its vision to become the cultural heart of York Central.
The submission follows a detailed public consultation which included an in-person exhibition at the NRM supported by a virtual consultation.
Central Hall will be a new welcome space and gallery located between the museum’s Great Hall and Station Hall.
It is intended to unite the museum buildings and is a cornerstone of Vision 2025, the museum’s five-year journey to transform its offer and become the World’s Railway Museum.
This vision also includes a new Wonderlab, aimed at inspiring children to think like engineers through experience, interactivity and play.
Central Hall will feature a gallery showcasing the latest innovations in rail technology, a café overlooking the new museum square, shop, flexible event space and new visitor facilities, including a changing places.
Judith McNicol, director of the National Railway Museum, said: “We are very pleased to reach this milestone and submit the planning application.
“Central Hall is a major part of the wider Vision 2025 strategy which will not only improve our offer, but also help us to inspire the next generation of engineers.
“We would like to thank everyone who came along to our engagement sessions and to those who viewed the exhibition and contributed feedback online – it’s helping us ensure our plans for Central Hall reflect what our visitors and community wants us to be now and in the future.”
The Central Hall plans form an early stage of the delivery of York Central, the 45-hectare regeneration site which is a partnership with Network Rail, Homes England, City of York Council and the museum.
The improvements are expected to be completed by 2025, which will mark the museum’s 50th Anniversary.
Architecture practice Feilden Fowles is leading the design team on Central Hall, having won an international design competition in 2020.
