AN exhibition and education space dedicated to the history of medicine and the former Worcester Royal Infirmary (WRI) could be created at the University of Worcester’s new city campus.

The University and the George Marshall Medical Museum have secured funding to develop plans for an interactive, educational museum and gallery space within the former Infirmary buildings.

Called the Museum@WRI, it would include collections of artefacts from the Infirmary and across Worcestershire, as well as exhibitions celebrating the history of the site. There will be an emphasis on learning and participation, with activities for schoolchildren and members of the public.

The project has got almost £15,000 in funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund to pay for the initial development. It is hoped that a bid for a further £550,000 to implement the scheme, will be successful in the future, allowing the museum space to open in mid-2011.

Anne Hannaford, director of information and learning services at the university, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the history of this site, where the British Medical Association was founded in 1832, and to engage the community in the history and future of medicine.

“It will enable curriculum development for schools and higher education, offer work placement and volunteering opportunities, and engage further community engagement and outreach.”

Catriona Smellie, curator at the George Marshall Medical Museum at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, said: “Stories of local healthcare, as well as Powick Hospital and community memories of the WRI, will be celebrated using collections currently in storage. The collections and activities will stimulate understanding about contemporary health and medical issues, within an historical context.”

The university is currently developing a second campus in the former Infirmary buildings. The second phase will open in September 2010. The first phase, two new halls of residence, opened in September this year.