A significant milestone has been reached in the restoration of Ceredigion Museum, with work to replace the iconic roof of the iconic Grade 2 listed Coliseum theatre on Terrace Road in Aberystwyth now complete

When the museum closed last May for extensive renovation and repair work to be carried out, it was expected to reopen 12 months later, but scaffolding remains at the site as the work continues, and 17 months later a reopening date has yet to be set.

Ceredigion County Council announced the news about the completion of the roof on Thursday, 21 October, saying the completion of this part of the project secures “the future of one of the county's most cherished heritage landmarks”.

A statement from the council about the work and the history of the buildings slate roof said: “The Coliseum has stood at the heart of Aberystwyth's cultural life for more than a century.

“In 1904 local builders first installed the building's distinctive slate roof. Today, more than 120 years later, local builders have once again been entrusted with the task of protecting the landmark, replacing the roof with specially quarried slate from Blaenau Ffestiniog.

The original builders of The Coliseum in 1904 with the owner David Phillips (centre, with bowler hat), architect Arthur Jones on the right and builder E.E Jenkins standing bottom right with his son and all the labourers
The original builders of The Coliseum in 1904 with the owner David Phillips (centre, with bowler hat), architect Arthur Jones on the right and builder E.E Jenkins standing bottom right with his son and all the labourers (Picture supplied)

“The project is not only safeguarding an important historic building but also supporting the local economy.

“DB3 Group are managing the project from their Aberystwyth studio, with local contractors LEB Construction Ltd undertaking the roofing work, and includes opportunities for two apprentices, helping to pass traditional skills on to the next generation.

“The roof works form an essential part of the wider programme to restore and revitalise Ceredigion Museum. While the museum remains closed during the works, plans are progressing for an exciting new chapter, including refreshed displays, enhanced visitor experiences and opportunities for greater community involvement.”

Cllr Catrin M S Davies, the Ceredigion County Council Cabinet member responsible for Culture, said: "This is an important moment for Ceredigion Museum.

"Seeing local builders working with Welsh slate to protect this historic building feels particularly fitting.

“The museum is much missed by residents and visitors alike, and these essential repairs are bringing us a step closer to welcoming people back through the doors."

Despite the current closure of the building, museum staff there continue to work hard behind the scenes, developing ambitious plans for the future and holding pop-up events throughout the county. New exhibitions and displays are already in the pipeline too.

Moving forward, engagement with schools and local communities will play a central role in shaping the museum's next chapter, the council say, ensuring it remains a place where local stories, heritage and culture can be shared and celebrated.

Ceredigion Museum Curator Carrie Canham said: "There is still much to do, but it will be worth the wait.

"The work taking place now is laying the foundations for a stronger, more resilient museum that will serve communities across Ceredigion for generations to come."

Members of the public are encouraged to follow Ceredigion Museum's social media channels for updates on the restoration project and future developments.