Migration Museum space reduced in City of London scheme

London's Migration Museum will occupy a smaller footprint than originally agreed in its new permanent home, following a decision by the City of London Corporation. Amendments to a student housing development at 65 Crutched Friars, proposed by developer Dominus, will allow for more student rooms while reducing the museum's allocated space.

Reduced Space for Museum

The museum, which has operated from various temporary sites since its founding in 2011, was set to have its first permanent base within a 21-storey block at 65 Crutched Friars. The original plan, approved in 2023, included two floors for exhibitions and one for events. However, Dominus requested changes to replace museum floorspace on the second level with 33 additional student rooms, bringing the total to 815. Internal layout adjustments were also outlined for the ground and first floors.

Dominus stated the changes were needed to enable the developer to contribute to the museum's fit-out, citing a challenging financial environment for charities. The developer also noted that the revised proposals would help secure the museum's deliverability, financial stability, and operational effectiveness. The Migration Museum has been seeking a permanent home for over a decade.

Concerns Raised Over Cultural Space

Some members of the City of London Corporation's Planning Applications Sub-Committee expressed reservations about the reduction in cultural space. One member described the application as sticking in their throat, while another voiced concern about losing a third of the space, particularly as the museum's story is expected to grow. Corporation officers, however, recommended approval, noting that the museum would retain significant publicly accessible cultural use, including exhibition space and ancillary facilities.

Laurie Boult, Chief Executive of the Migration Museum, stated that the decision provides certainty to deliver their new vision for the museum. Charles Gurassa, Chair of the Board of Trustees, added that the site will draw visitors to the Square Mile and attract a diverse audience. He noted that even with the reduction, the new site will offer approximately 40 per cent more space than the museum's previous temporary location. The project requires nearly £13 million, with just under half raised so far.

Jay Ahluwalia, Principal Director at Dominus, confirmed that construction is progressing well, with rooms from the third floor upwards expected to be ready for students in September. He highlighted close collaboration with the Migration Museum team on the revised proposals. The application was overwhelmingly approved by the committee, with 13 out of 15 members voting in favour.

What Happens Next

The Migration Museum is expected to open its doors in its new permanent home in the first half of 2028. The development at 65 Crutched Friars will house student accommodation alongside the museum's exhibition and event spaces.