Video provides sneak preview inside new Doncaster museum - including mysterious 'shop' exhibit

A video released by Doncaster Council shows a peek around the new Danum Gallery, Library and Museum, which was originally expected to open late this summer.

A spokesman for the authority said: “As you can imagine, covid-19 has slowed our progress and pushed things back but this latest glimpse inside shows things are coming along a treat.

“There’s still a lot to do and prepare, even when the construction bit is finished, but it’s going to be a great place to learn and be inspired.

“Now things are starting to get back to the ‘new normal’ with the covid-19 pandemic, we are redeveloping our plans for the building.

“Once we are clearer on timings we will let you know the planned opening date and provide you with lots more information on all the enjoyable and interesting things you will be able to see and do."

Included in the footage is a mocked up, old fashioned shop front which has been created inside the building, called Gresley’s Provisions, which appears to be set to form an exhibition.

The walls appear to be plastered, and many of the rooms look to be close to completion, although some work is still ongoing. The footage also shows the roof is now packed with solar panels.

Builders who are carrying out work to create the town centre landmark on Waterdale already carried out lighting tests – showing for the first time how the frontage will look when illuminated.

Railway tracks have been installed inside and when the museum opens, they are intended to hold two steam engines, expected to be loaned to the venue. They can be seen in places in the footage.

The same room will also house railway memorabilia from the Hall Cross Collection. It will also allow for national touring exibitions to be held in Doncaster for the first time.

The Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry museum will also be relocated there from its previous based at the existing museum on Chequer Road.