Gainsborough's House launches new information point in Sudbury while work takes place on National Centre development

Gainsborough’s House has opened a new information point in Sudbury, while work on an ambitious regeneration project begins.

Based out of a unit next door to the museum in Gainsborough Street, staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide key details about the major redevelopment.

The new National Centre for Thomas Gainsborough, which is expected to be completed by 2021, will feature a three-storey exhibition and studio space, with a cafe overlooking the museum’s 18th century garden.

Mark Bills, director of Gainsborough’s House, said: “I’m so pleased we can continue to engage with our visitors and supporters during this closure.

“This can be a challenging time for a project and we are delighted that we are able to maintain a public face and keep everyone up-to-date with the progress of our project, which is so important to the town of Sudbury and to the region as a whole.”

He added: “We do hope that people will drop in to see us and continue to support Gainsborough’s House.”

Wall displays are being showcased at the new facility to provide a timeline of Gainsborough’s House, while artefacts from the museum’s extensive collection will offer a glimpse into the life of painter Cedric Morris.

The temporary facility is open from Mondays to Saturdays, between 10am and 5pm, and on Sundays, from 11am to 5pm.