Communities Minister visits Ulster Folk Museum to see first step of Reawakening project

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has visited the Ulster Folk Museum to mark the start of the Reawakening project, as work begins on the Pavilion development.

The Pavilion is the first step in this £50million project, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the museum's facilities and strengthening its role in connecting people with their heritage. It will unlock the Ulster Folk Museum’s potential as a unique heritage and environment resource over the next five years. 

On completion in spring 2027, the pavilion will become a new, dedicated space for engagement, giving visitors a glimpse of how Reawakening will transform the Ulster Folk Museum and create more opportunities for learning, discovery and participation.

Speaking at the commencement of construction on the new pavilion, the Minister said: 

“The Ulster Folk Museum has an exciting future as it evolves and continues to preserve, share and celebrate the traditions, skills and ways of life of the people of Ulster. Its role has never been more relevant, ensuring our unique shared heritage is protected for future generations.

“This exciting project will create more meaningful opportunities for people to connect with who they are. Reawakening this important asset is not simply about reinvestment – it’s about reimagining the museum’s purpose. 

“The Ulster Folk Museum is an indispensable resource for Northern Ireland as we all continue to learn from the past and explore what it means to be of this place today.”

Kathryn Thomson, Chief Executive of National Museums NI, said: 

“Reawakening the Ulster Folk Museum is very much in the making and today is an exciting milestone in our journey to transform the Ulster Folk Museum into a place that is more unique, more relevant, and more valued - future-proofing its role as a heritage and environment resource. 

“This is an ambitious programme of transformation – a project for everyone. It means people can get closer to the museum’s heritage assets than ever before and get more involved in collective experiences, where heritage is not just seen, but shared. The Ulster Folk Museum’s collection is a people’s collection – and has never been more relevant to our lives than today. By sharing more of the stories and objects within it, we allow people to explore their identity, languages, the environment, and learn new skills, ensuring we serve communities for generations to come.”

The Reawakening project is supported by £40million in funding through the Department for Communities and £10million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund – thanks to National Lottery players.  Reawakening sets a new benchmark for the important role museums play in Northern Ireland.

While Maurice Flynn & Sons Ltd. has been appointed as the contractor for the Pavilion, the appointment of AtkinsRéalis as the Reawakening Design Team also marks an important step forward in delivery. A refreshed Project Board has been established and a contractor market engagement exercise is imminent.

Aidan Flynn, Managing Director at Flynn, the contractor for the Pavilion, said: 

“We recognise the importance of the Ulster Folk Museum to local communities and its role within the cultural landscape of Northern Ireland. It is a privilege to play our part in Reawakening – a significant project that will help people to connect more deeply with the rich heritage of this place. We look forward to working closely with National Museums NI to deliver the pavilion as a welcoming and accessible space for public engagement, transforming opportunities for people to connect and explore.” 

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