Valence House Museum - the borough’s only surviving medieval manor house - will undergo a significant transformation under the new master plan, which sets out a bold vision to enhance the historic site as a vibrant heritage, education, learning and cultural centre for local residents and visitors alike. The phased works will focus on addressing conservation repairs to the Grade II* Listed building, a Museum Rehang, Collections and Archives, accessibility and improvements to the natural landscape including the North Moat, South Moat and Valence Park.

This milestone has come as the National Lottery Heritage Fund announces Barking and Dagenham as a ‘Heritage Place’ - a recognition that brings with it long-term support and funding opportunities aimed at celebrating local stories, places and people.

The Valence House Vision and Master Plan forms part of a wider programme of investment into Barking and Dagenham, with regeneration projects such as Valence House Museum North Moat restoration, already underway with the support of Arts Council England funding through their Museum Estate and Development Fund (MEND).

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “Valence House holds a special place in the hearts of our residents, and we know how much local people enjoy and value it. That’s why their views have been so important in shaping the masterplan to help not only preserve our past but inspire future generations. And with our new status as a Heritage Place, it’s fantastic Barking and Dagenham is being recognised for its extraordinary stories and cultural contribution.”

Councillor Dominic Twomey, Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council, added: “We’ve invested in Valence House over the years to make sure it remains a key part of Barking and Dagenham’s heritage offer - and we’ll continue to do so. Combined with the recent Heritage Lottery Fund’s Heritage Places announcement, this marks a really exciting moment for the borough and shows our commitment to celebrating and protecting our shared history.”

The council will now begin the next phase of conservation planning and wider improvements for Valence House Museum and Valence Park, working closely with residents, schools, community groups and heritage partners to ensure the vision becomes a reality.

For more information, visit https://valencehousecollections.co.uk/