A major restoration project is underway at Scarborough's renowned Rotunda Museum.

The restoration is expected to be completed before Christmas, and the public will have the opportunity to learn more about the project at an open day on Friday, September 8.

The event is a part of the annual Heritage Open Days festival and will feature various activities, including demonstrations on heritage conservation and the skills required for the restoration work.

The Rotunda Museum, a circular structure constructed in 1829, was designed by William 'Strata' Smith.

The building showcases geological exhibits and was constructed using Hackness Rock, a sandstone provided by Sir John Johnstone.

It is listed as Grade II* by English Heritage, which describes it as ‘one of the oldest purpose built museums in Britain still fulfilling its original role. As such it is an important part of Britain's scientific heritage.’ The current restoration work is being funded by a £256,054 grant from Arts Council England's MEND (Museum Estate and Development) program.

Andrew Clay, the Chief Executive of Scarborough Museums and Galleries, said: “We are undertaking some essential conservation work to the façade of the Rotunda. It involves replacing some of the stonework where it has severely deteriorated.

“The principal section is the ornamental cornice that supports the columns at the front of the building. Long ago this was replaced with a cement compound which has compromised the surrounding masonry. Cement isn’t porous so there has been significant water retention in the stone sections above.

“The MEND project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to replace the damaged areas with new sandstone that is commensurate with the age of the building. In other words, SMG is safeguarding the central section of the Rotunda for decades to come.”

Pete Massey, the Director North of Arts Council England, said: "Having grown up in Scarborough and enjoyed visiting the Rotunda Museum and its unique collections from childhood, I’m delighted that we have been able to support its repairs through our MEND programme so that future generations can continue to enjoy visiting."

Adam Hickey, the Managing Director of Pinnacle Conservation, said: “We are honoured to play a part in the conservation efforts of this iconic building in Scarborough. It’s projects such as these that allow us to continue to develop a training scheme for the advancement of the building conservation craft to ensure these skills are retained for the future.”

The open day is free to the public and will consist of hour-long sessions starting at 11am, noon, and 2pm.

Spaces for the sessions are limited and can be booked through Eventbrite.