Work is progressing well on the latest phase of the £8m redevelopment of Oxford University’s world-famous Pitt Rivers Museum.

New cast-iron pillars, matching the originals, are now being installed at the Parks Road museum, which is behind the Museum of Natural History.

The Pitt Rivers Museum closed in July for refurbishment and is expected to reopen next spring.

This second phase of redevelopment will restore the original vista of the galleries, and original cases will be returned to the front of the museum after more than 40 years.

Space vacated by the cases is providing more room for school and family activities.

A team from Oxford-based Beard Construction is remodelling the entrance of the museum and improving visitor facilities as part of the redevelopment programme.

Gaye Spencer, a spokesman for Beard and the Pitt Rivers Museum, said: “The museum has presented a highly challenging construction environment, not least because of its priceless collection of artefacts, some of which remain in situ and are susceptible to damage from light, dust and moisture, together with the historical nature of the building itself.

“Beard’s property services and special works team, which is carrying out the work, was selected because of its wide experience in dealing with sensitive, high-profile historic buildings.

“Recent projects have included work at Oxford University’s Sheldonian Theatre, the Rad- cliffe Camera and the Ash- molean Museum.”

The work involves the construction of the new entrance platform, with views across the museum floor, wider steps, a lift for wheelchairs, and relocated shop and reception areas.

There will also be improvements to the lighting and ventilation.

The renovation has been funded by the university, with a £1m donation from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and another donation from patron Michael Palin. Last year, the first phase of the renovation project — the extension of the museum — was opened by the Monty Python star.

The extension includes a new conservation laboratory, libr- ary and facility for visiting researchers. There is also an exhibition gallery and lecture theatre.

The museum is famed for its unique collection of items gathered on expeditions around the globe. Exhibits include shrunken heads, totem poles, sailing boats, weapons and musical instruments.

The Museum of Natural History remains open while the work at the Pitt Rivers is being completed.

The Pitt Rivers was founded in 1884 when Lieutenant General Pitt Rivers, an influential figure in the development of archaeology and anthropology, gave his collection to the university.

For more information, log on to prm.ox.ac.uk