PROGRESSIVE plans have been unveiled for essential repairs and new building work at Hereford's historic Waterworks Museum.

The move is seen as a turning point for the museum and, if successful, will ensure its future development for the next 25 years.

According to chairman Noel Meeke the decision to undertake the work was made after the main building, a Grade II-listed Scheduled Ancient Monument, was put on the 'at risk' register by English Heritage.

Mr Meeke said: "This placed a responsibility upon the trustees to effect the necessary repairs. Furthermore the limitations imposed by the present buildings were restricting the future development of the museum."

In addition the Fulford Foundation, based in the Netherlands, has awarded the museum a substantial grant to re-display the existing collection, which includes a triple-expansion steam engine from 1895 - the largest of its type still working in the UK. The museum sets out to make the story of drinking water 'spring to life'.

The trustees have called in Hereford-based architects Rod Robinson Associates to develop plans for the museum in co-operation with English Heritage and local interests.

The company's aim is to carry out the repair work to the roof, brickwork and distinctive boiler chimney of the main building as phase one of a more substantial project to improve the whole site.

Announcing his plans for the new build work, Rod Robinson envisaged: "A design that celebrates the industrial heritage of the site through the detailing of a steel and glass structure.

"The new entrance to the museum would be fully glazed creating a visual link, connecting the building to both the river and the Broomy Hill water tower."

Plans would also include an open-plan layout that, according to the architects, would allow for adaptability of space for functions and ease of movement for exhibits.

If the project is to be successful, planning permission will have to be granted by Herefordshire Council and funding secured from various sources, including the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Meanwhile, the Waterworks Museum will be open and 'in full steam' on Easter Sunday and Monday.

Chairman Noel Meeke, said: "No foot and mouth restrictions apply and the museum is open for the 2001 season.

"The welcome to this wonderful and unique attraction will be warmer than ever."