Cheltenham Borough Council has revealed proposals to transform the town’s Art Gallery and Museum to provide more space and improved access.

A shortlist of potential architects will be announced later this month, with a final decision being made mid December.

The new building will incorporate a 300sq m (3,230sq ft) temporary exhibition space to host shows from national and international touring organisations; a community gallery to display community exhibitions and arts development projects; a picture gallery; an area for dedicated education and outreach facilities, including an activity room and open access to the museum’s ‘take away’ service; a storage and study collection area and an artist-in-residence studio.

Facilities for visitors with disabilities will be improved to provide lift access to the main galleries on the second floor, which will also be updated.

A new shop and café will be built, as well as improved staff offices and administrative facilities.