The project, which is to be funded by Milton Keynes Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council England, will see the creation of two new galleries to transform the existing site, which includes a Grade II listed Victorian farmhouse.

Designed by Nicholas Hare Associates, plans for the new scheme are currently underway and will include exhibits of the town’s pre-historic period through to the present day.

Construction is expected to start in spring 2015, with completion scheduled for the end of 2016.

Phil Shortman, Business Unit Director, Wates Construction, Northern Home Counties and East, said: “We are extremely proud to have been appointed as the main contractor to deliver this exceptional development.

“The flagship transformation of Milton Keynes Museum is undoubtedly a scheme deserving of an expert team to take it forward and Wates’ extensive experience in the museums sector places us as a trusted partner for the project.”

The project has been procured via the Milton Keynes Construction Framework.