MAKING SPACE FOR HISTORY

The campaign Story

Helping Discover Downham Heritage Centre grow for the future

Discover Downham Heritage Centre is launching a major fundraising appeal to create much-needed additional space for heritage collections, research, exhibitions and community activities.

We are asking for the support of our community to help us complete a two-phase extension project that will secure the future growth of the Centre.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Since moving to its current site in 2016, the Centre has grown into a busy and valued community resource:

  • Around 900 visitors each year
  • More than 200 events and activities annually
  • Over 40 volunteers supporting our work
  • More than 100 members
  • Increasing demand for research, exhibitions and community use

But our current building is now at capacity.

We are struggling to:

  • Store and protect historic artefacts
  • Expand exhibitions and displays
  • Meet growing visitor demand
  • Provide suitable research and community space

Without action, our ability to grow and preserve local heritage will be seriously limited.

WHAT WE ARE DOING

We are planning a two-phase extension project:

Phase 1 – Heritage Storage

A small dedicated storage extension to protect and preserve historic collections.

Phase 2 – Visitor and Community Space

A new reception, shop and office area, plus a dedicated meeting room.

Together, these improvements will free valuable space inside the main hall for exhibitions, research and community activities.

OUR COMMITMENT

We are not starting from zero.

  • £25,000 has already been committed by Discover Downham
  • Planning permission has been granted
  • Full plans have been completed
  • A builder has been identified

We are now ready to begin Phase 1 once the legal documents have been finalised.

FUNDRAISING TARGET

We need to raise approximately £70,000 to complete Phase 2 – the main extension.

Every donation, large or small, directly supports the future of the Centre.

WHAT YOUR SUPPORT WILL ACHIEVE

With this project completed, we will be able to:

  • Protect and preserve more of our local heritage
  • Improve visitor experience and welcome
  • Expand exhibitions and displays
  • Improve research facilities
  • Provide more flexible community space
  • Secure the long-term sustainability of the Centre

HOW YOU CAN HELP

You can support the appeal in several ways:

  • Donate online via our GoFundMe page
  • Scan our QR code at the Centre
  • Make a donation in person (cash, card or cheque)
  • Attend one of our many fundraising events – music evening, talks, coffee mornings and craft fairs

👉 Donate here:

CAMPAIGN LAUNCH

This appeal will be formally launched at our Annual General Meeting on 21 July 2026.

Further updates and fundraising progress will be shared throughout the campaign.

CONTACT

Discover Downham Heritage Centre
28-30 Priory Road,
Downham Market,
PE38 9JS

Email: info@discoverdownham.org.uk

Phone: 01366 384428