Norfolk museum set for 'urgent' refurbishment

The Grade II-listed building dates back to the early 19th Century and has previously housed a butchers and a florist

A town's museum is set to undergo "urgent" refurbishment works.

Repairs will be carried out at Diss Museum in the Market Place after plans to replace its wooden columns were approved by South Norfolk Council.

The Grade II-listed building dates back to the early 19th Century and has previously housed a butchers and a florist.

Its seven pillars have been repaired many times over the years but must now be fully replaced due to their poor condition.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the building - known locally as The Shambles - has been the home of Diss Museum since 1993 and hosts a variety of displays about the history of the town and area.

Richard Peaty, a member of Diss Town Council, said just one of the pillars was in "urgent need" of replacement, but sought permission from South Norfolk Council to refit all seven when it becomes necessary.

The application was approved earlier this month, requiring any work to begin within the space of three years.