THE world-renowned Museum of Royal Worcester has taken the first step towards a £1 million redevelopment project.

The scheme would see the museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of Worcester porcelain, revamp-ed and a project set up to champion the role it has play-ed in the world of ceramics.

A £88,992 development grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund has been awarded to the former factory, which will raise matched funds of £34,609 to carry out detailed planning in the new year.

When the plans are complete, the museum in Severn Street will apply for the remaining balance to make the changes and hopes to start work in autumn next year.

Sam Driver White, museum chairman, said: “We are delighted the Heritage Lottery Fund is supporting this project and we have the opportunity to update and upgrade our displays and create an exciting and elegant destination that will introduce more people to our collections and attract visitors to the city of Worcester.

“The fact that Royal Worcester was the finest porcelain made in the UK is something of which Worcester people are proud and I hope many will help us by contributing to the matched funding required.”

The former factory began life in 1751 and the project will aim to bring back to life the story of manufacture over the last 250 years through new displays and audio recordings from worker’s memories of their time at Royal Worcester.

The museum plans to open a hidden treasure trove of film, archives and collections, develop vibrant educational services and involve volunteers and people who worked at the factory.

Reyahn King, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund for the West Midlands said: “We’re extremely pleased to give initial support to the project, which aims to bring alive the story of the oldest porcelain manufacturer in England for the local community and visitors alike. We shall watch the developing plans with interest.”

The redevelopment of the museum will go alongside plans for a £10 million cultural quarter in former Royal Worcester buildings.

New owner Colin Kinnear, of the Bransford Trust, plans to transform the area into a major arts attraction, including bars, restaurants and a theatre or concert venue.