A £9m project to create new galleries exploring the history of Birmingham at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (BMAG) has moved forward, with the internal fit-out now set to begin.

Thomas Vale Construction is handing over the new Birmingham History Galleries to staff, following work to restore and refurbish part of the Grade II*-listed museum building. West Yorkshire-based Redman Design is behind the proposals.

Due to open in September 2012, the project has involved the creation of more than 1,000sq m (10,764sq ft) of space, including four "distinctive" galleries exploring Birmingham's history from medieval times through to 1945.

A fifth Your Birmingham gallery will examine the character and identity of the city and its people, which will be shaped by contributions from local residents. The Heritage Lottery Fund helped fund the scheme with a £4.9m grant announced in 2009.

Birmingham City Council cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture Martin Mullaney said: "This exciting project, which will tell the story of Birmingham's great global history, is now moving into the final stage.

"The new exhibition space is magnificent and I know staff at the museum are excited at the prospect of fitting out new galleries that I'm sure will be a big hit."

Image: Birmingham City Council/Redman Design