London Transport Museum to get makeover

London Transport Museum CGI shows people outside red brick museum entrance with bus at entranceLondon Transport Museum
TfL says it will create a "spectacular new public entrance from Covent Garden Piazza"

Work is due to take place to refurbish the London Transport Museum ahead of its 50th anniversary.

The Covent Garden attraction, which will remain open throughout the project, will get a new entrance, an extra 500 square metres of space for galleries alongside environmental upgrades, including low-carbon heating.

Located inside a Victorian flower market since 1980, the Grade-II listed building welcomed 450,000 visitors last year.

Elizabeth McKay, director and CEO of London Transport Museum, said: "London's transport story is one of the greatest innovation stories in the world and this transformation is about sharing that story in a bigger, bolder and more inspiring way than ever before."

Peek into the secret world of London's transport

Transport for London (TfL) said more information would be released in the coming months.

McKay added: "For generations, Londoners and visitors have come to the museum to explore the city and its stories through its transport system.

"As we approach our 50th anniversary, we're creating an experience that captures the energy, creativity and optimism of London itself - while opening the doors to even more people."

London Transport Museum CGI shows people inside bright light, white museum entrance with Tubes, buses and carsLondon Transport Museum
Transport bosses hope the renovation will grow annual visits by 20%

TfL commissioner Andy Lord said: "For more than 200 years, London's public transport has shaped the capital and improved people's lives in so many ways, from the world's first underground railway to the iconic red bus, Oyster card and the Elizabeth line.

"This city has always led the way, and public transport has been key to its economic growth and recovery.

"I'm thrilled to support the new plans that showcase our transport heritage and the future of transport in the heart of Covent Garden."

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