Major restoration work on Coventry’s ‘Toy Museum’ underway
The historic building in the city centre has been known as the ‘Toy Museum’ for decades.
Last updated 20th Oct 2022
Historic Coventry Trust has secured funding of almost £300,000 to start repairs on Whitefriars' Gate in Much Park Street.
The five-month restoration programme is part of a wider project to convert Whitefriars' Gate into a bespoke visitor accommodation and office space.
Midland Conservation Ltd has been appointed to carry out the initial work at the Grade II listed building – including repairing the roof, stonework, windows, and doors.
The Trust has secured grants of £180,000 from Historic England and £100,000 from the Architectural Heritage Fund.
Whitefriars' Gate is the 14th Century postern gatehouse of Whitefriars' Monastery, the Carmelite Friary located adjacent to the London Road ring road roundabout.
The building’s last resident was Ron Morgan, a potter and ex-city councillor, who converted the building into a toy museum from 1973 until 2007.
Graham Tait, assistant director at Historic Coventry Trust, said the adjacent part of the building suffered fire damage in 2009 and was subsequently repaired, but the building has been empty and unused ever since.
He said: “We are really excited to see this work get underway because it will address the urgent repair needs of this important 'At Risk' building and will provide a sound structure for the future fit out works, which will provide a long-term sustainable use for the building.
“The future fit out will provide a unique opportunity for people to stay in this much-loved historic building as well as access for all during future Heritage Open Days.”