The Higgins Bedford will Re-Open from Dawn to Dusk on 21st June 2013

The much anticipated opening of The Higgins Bedford will take place on the longest day of the year, Friday 21st June, in an amazing dawn to dusk launch.

The transformed art gallery and museum in located in the historic buildings of Castle Brewery and the adjoining Victorian family home, both built by the Higgins familiy in the mid-19th Century.

The Higgins Bedford will bring together an internationally renowned art collection with a brand new visitor experience of national significance, that does justice to the stories behind the people, places and collections associated with both the former museum and art gallery. The £5.8 million project also features a hugely expanded floorspace for exhibitions, state-of-the-art modern facilities and the latest technology to enable people of all ages to enjoy the displays.

Finishing work is now taking place in preparation for the opening in what is set to be one of the cultural highlights of the year, with the longest day of the year chosen for the start of the next stage in the life of this remarkable, free, family-orientated venue.

Lib Dem Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: "The opening of The Higgins Bedford is a tremendously exciting event for Bedford town centre, marking the creation of a major cultural attraction for local residents and visitors to enjoy. Internationally renowned art will be on display in the very best modern facilities, while the story of Bedford Borough will be brought to life in the state-of-the-art surroundings. The redeveloped Higgins Bedford belongs to us all, and I hope local people of all ages will come along time and again to enjoy what is on offer.

"In the face of extremely challenging economic conditions we have a stream of town centre regeneration projects coming to fruition, bucking the trend of decline for high streets elsewhere. Together these projects and the major investment in our town centre will increase footfall dramatically and send the clear message that Bedford town centre is a vibrant, enjoyable place to visit."

The opening of The Higgins Bedford provides the finishing touch to the Cultural Quarter in the Castle Quay area of Bedford Town Centre. The redeveloped facility completes a comprehensive regeneration which has already seen the exposure and interpretation of archaeology in the grounds of Bedford Castle and newly opened restaurants, bars and shops adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

The major transformation and successful redevelopment of the Higgins Bedford has only been possible thanks to the commitment and support of donors and trustees, and Bedford Borough Council would like to thank them for championing this project throughout.