A MUSEUM is set for an ambitious refurbishment after winning permission to build a £300,000 extension.

The Vale and Downland Museum, in Church Street, Wantage, has been given permission for a new kitchen, library and archive room in a two-storey extension.

Staff at the 17th-century museum hope to have raised the money by the end of the year, so building can start in time for a summer opening.

The chairman of the museum’s trustees, Terry Fraser, said: “This is a huge project for everyone concerned and we’re thrilled we’ve been given the go-ahead.

“The building which the extension will replace was already falling apart when we took it over – at one point it had a tree growing in it.

“We’ll be able to have four or five more tables for people to sit at in the cafe area because the whole layout will change.”

The museum’s kitchen, library and archive room are currently in Legges Cottage, next to the museum.

Planning for the new extension began when the museum decided not to extend its lease on the cottage, due to its dilapidated condition.

Backing for the project was given by Vale of White Horse District Council development control committee.

The museum, which has 55,000 visitors a year, has two galleries, a shop and a cafe.

It currently houses an exhibition about King Alfred, who was born in Wantage.

Museum manager Craig Hart said: “It’s a great idea and is vital, because we will not be keeping Legges Cottage.

“The key issue now is fundraising, which won’t be easy.

“Up until now we haven’t asked people to put their hand in their pocket, but that time will come soon and we hope they look on us favourably.”

In a report prepared for the application, concerns were raised from the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings.

The charity asked for the plans to be explained in greater detail and also called for an emphasis on repair rather than replacement.

A letter from the charity said: “The structure is of considerable interest. Concerns are raised to the damp proofing proposed and the historic panelling and joinery should be retained in situ.”

Mr Fraser added: “We appreciate the building is Grade II listed and all the plans will be sympathetic to the surroundings.”

The county archaeological officer also called on the museum to monitor the site during construction after medieval and Romano-British pottery was found during alterations in 1977.