Brampton - Peel Heritage Complex (PHC) is making history. A $10 million restoration and construction project will commence in March 2010 to enhance the land and buildings that hold the Region of Peel's Museum, Archives and Art Gallery.
"A significant investment in the Peel economy was made by our federal and provincial partners through the Canada-Ontario Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. The funding granted to the Region of Peel for the expansion of the Peel Heritage Complex shows the importance placed on arts, heritage and culture as unifying elements for a healthy community," said Emil Kolb, Regional Chair."
The PHC will be temporarily closed from March 2010 to fall 2011 due to construction. Art, artifacts and archival documents will be stored safely, and the heritage architecture of the buildings will be protected.
Highlights of the renovated space include:
- Spacious new Art Gallery will have double the exhibition space and quadruple the storage space
- Archives storage and Museum exhibition space will increase significantly
- Historic Peel County Court House (1867) will be open daily to the public for meetings, receptions and special events
- New community and studio spaces for music, lectures, performances and films
- Installation of outdoor sculpture and art will liven the streetscape
- Barrier-free access from street level and the parking courtyard
- Environmentally responsible design features, such as geothermal heating and cooling and climate-controlled storage/exhibit spaces
"Our buildings hold thousands of stories. And after 40 years, the collections belonging to the Museum, Archives and Art Gallery have grown dramatically," commented Diane Allengame, Acting Manager, PHC. "Expanding means more space for larger, more prominent exhibitions of art and artifacts, better storage for significant local treasures, and new opportunities for community connections."
While the PHC is closed to visitors, staff will continue to run outreach programs for school children and adults. E-mail phcprograms@peelregion.ca for more information.
Archival access will be limited, but researchers are encouraged to e-mail hcresearch@peelregion.ca to inquire about a particular service or consultation.
By March 1, http://www.peelheritagecomplex.org/ will be re-launched to share construction updates, photos, services, contacts and more.
PHC collects, preserves and displays a variety of materials related to Peel's culture and heritage. Operated by the Region of Peel, PHC is located at 9 Wellington St., E. in Brampton.
Peel Heritage Complex - Discover... Explore... Wonder... More than just well preserved buildings, it's a place where the past, present and future are linked in dynamic displays and explored through creative programming and research. Located at 9 Wellington St. E., Brampton, ON. For more information call 905-791-4055.