MEMBERS of the public can find out about plans to redevelop Brecon’s museum and build a new library at the official launch of the project.

The Beacon project is £9m scheme to redevelop the Grade II star listed Brecknock Museum and Art Gallery as well as build a new library at the Glamorgan Street site which Powys council is calling a cultural hub for Breconshire. It will also include a new tourist information office.

Work on the project is due to start shortly, with some preparation work already underway, and the council is hosting the launch event at Brecon Guildhall on Friday, July 29 from 5-7pm which any interested member of the public is welcome to attend.

The Brecknock Society and Museum Friends and the Brecknock Art Trust are also partnering the council in the Heritage Lottery Fund backed scheme.

A council spokesman said: "Work starts on site this summer and, together with our project partners, we want to share news of this flagship scheme, introduce our contractors to the community and celebrate the beginning of an exciting regeneration opportunity for the town of Brecon and the surrounding community."

The Brecknock Museum has been closed since October 2011 with the council having already undertaken some maintenance work on the 174-year-old Shire Hall.

The project also includes the demolition of the former New County Hall building in Glamorgan Street.

The council says the work will provide an economic boost to the area through he employment of local trades and apprenticeship opportunities and the development of the attraction.

Dr Mervyn Bramley of the Brecknock Society & Museum Friends added: "This is a major partnership project with the funding partners contributing £4 million to the project cost and a significant voluntary resource alongside Powys council.

"We are delighted that the council has re-affirmed its commitment and the project budget is now secured. The whole Breconshire community stands to benefit from this 21st century facility, which also be a major attraction for visitors, particularly on bad weather days as these are not infrequent in mid-Wales.

"The existing museum and art collections are of national significance and an important record of our Breconshire heritage - at last these will be on public display again."