Poole Museum and Scaplen’s Court

Poole Museum & Scaplen’s Court Conservation Project

Heritage Conservation & Refurbishment Specialists 

Greendale Construction Limited successfully delivered extensive conservation, restoration, and refurbishment works at Poole Museum and Scaplen’s Court on behalf of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council. This phase followed an earlier programme of energy-saving improvements, also completed by Greendale Construction, demonstrating its ability to deliver complex projects across multiple stages.

£4.4 Million Listed Building Restoration

Commencing in October 2023 and completing in June 2025, the £4.4 million contract focused on three historic buildings within the museum complex:

• Scaplen’s Court – Grade I listed

• The Town Cellars – Grade I listed

• Oakley’s Mill – Grade II listed

The project required a sensitive approach to listed building conservation, balancing heritage preservation with modern functionality.

Structural Adaptations & Accessibility Improvements

Major structural adaptations were undertaken to improve accessibility throughout the museum complex. Works included:

• Enlargement of the existing museum lift shaft

• Widening and modification of multiple entrances

• Installation of a new passenger lift at Poole Museum

• Installation of a new platform lift

• Construction of a mezzanine structure within the courtyard at Scaplen’s Court

These upgrades ensure inclusive access while respecting the historic fabric of the buildings.

Mechanical, Electrical & Interior Upgrades

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical replacements were carried out across all buildings. Internally, the project included:

• New flooring throughout

• Extensive redecoration works

• Careful re-pointing to preserve original masonry

New Exhibition Spaces, Café & Shop Fit-Out

The refurbishment delivered six new exhibition gallery spaces, enhancing the museum’s visitor experience. In addition, Greendale Construction completed:

• A new museum shop fit-out

• A new café area, including kitchen and seating spaces

These improvements support the museum’s long-term operational and commercial sustainability.

Bespoke Architectural Features

A key architectural highlight was the complete removal of the existing bay window at Scaplen’s Court. A new bespoke façade was designed and constructed, creating a striking new bay entranceway that enhances both accessibility and visual impact while remaining sympathetic to the historic setting.

“Greendale Construction is delighted to have been main contractors on this fantastic project which will benefit the local community and visitors from all over the country and even further afield. A major focus of the project has been to open-up the buildings, doubling public and display space. We have made the museum buildings more accessible for all, with new ground floor accessible WCs, level access and new lifts.  Greendale Construction has carried out multiple phases on the Poole Museum project, as well as an extension back in 2006 and 2007. This also includes the decarbonisation works, restoration works at Scaplen’s Court, and Public Realm. We also got involved with tours throughout the project, including welcoming members the public, stakeholders, local organisations such as Dorset Chamber of Trade and Commerce on a tour of the works, as well as Helen Patel, Senior Business Development Manager and James Cole, Business Development Manager at The Chartered Institute of Building.” – Chris Cave, Commercial Director, Greendale Construction Limited.

 “The completion of this phase marks a significant milestone in the transformation of Poole Museum into a more inclusive, engaging, and accessible cultural destination.  Greendale Construction has delivered exceptional work on a complex and sensitive site, respecting the heritage of these historic buildings while enabling modern functionality. We’re thrilled to see the vision for the whole museum estate come to life.  Now that Scaplen’s Court is open and delighting visitors with its fresh, inclusive new look, we’re looking forward to completing the new galleries in the main museum and opening our doors for everyone to enjoy all our revitalised spaces this autumn.” – Alison Gudgeon, Senior Project Manager for Poole Museum, BCP Council