The Museum of London is celebrating its 25th anniversary with the launch of a £33m redevelopment programme that will provide a 70 per cent increase in gallery space.

Designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects the extension to the existing building will house new permanent galleries by Conran & Partners, a glazed central court for school and community events, an expanded shop and a new entrance at street level by Foster and Partners. Phase 1 of the project starts in January and £11m has already been secured from the Corporation of London, private donors and the museum's reserve funds. Phase 2 starts in 2003 and the entire redevelopment sis scheduled for completion in 2006. The museum will stay open during the work.