Work has started on a museum refurbishment project in Edinburgh.

The Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile has shut to allow new cases, floors and lights to be installed in what is the first large scale change to the Museum for 30 years.

The five-month scheme, being led by Leith-based design practice Studioarc, will also result in objects being displayed that have not been seen in the Museum before. The ground floor will be opened into an interactive space, featuring dedicated zones focusing on memories of life at home, in school and at play.

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An area for film and a digital photo album will also be launched, focusing on how children have grown up in Edinburgh over the decades.

The museum is scheduled to re-open in March 2018.

Cllr Donald Wilson said: "With over 225,000 visitors every year, the Museum is one of Edinburgh’s flagship venues. From dinky cars and teddy bears to school books and first shoes, the Museum boasts an impressive collection of more than 60,000 objects reflecting childhoods from the 18th century to the present day. This refurbishment will allow us to re-display some of these items, and tell the story of childhood in new ways.

"The result will be a new, open space for children and adults to explore, learn and play; with new interactive elements, hands-on history and film. We are hugely grateful to Museums Galleries Scotland and the Friends of Edinburgh City Art Centre and Museums for contributing towards this redevelopment, and look forward to opening again in March 2018."

(LM)