Peggy a Step Closer to Going Home

MNH has announced the appointment of a multi-disciplinary design team to develop a new home for the Peggy at the Nautical Museum.

The renovation will form part of a £5 million redevelopment scheme as MNH aims to deliver a refreshed interpretation of the historic site, creating a memorable experience for locals and visitors alike.

While not yet having the £5m, MNH is working towards fundraising and former DfE minister Dr Alex Allinson said in November 2021 that there may be some gov support towards the figure.

The ambitious redesign will also see, eventually, the return of the world-famous vessel, the Peggy, to a distinctive purpose-built boathouse which will be located at the heart of the site. The project has been designed to highlight the story of the Peggy and her owner/designer, George Quayle, along with the island’s wider maritime history.

The appointed design team comprises a consortium of building and exhibition professionals with a track record in the successful delivery of architectural and exhibition design to the highest standards.

It will be led by Dannat Johnson Architects (DJA) and project managed by Fraser Randall who together completed two major new permanent exhibitions for the Imperial War Museum in London last year.

Connie Lovel, executive director at MNH, said: ‘Manx National Heritage has undertaken a rigorous procurement procedure and, through the process of shortlisting and interviewing a number of very capable teams, we have selected an extremely experienced group of design professionals to work alongside us. They will manage this transformational project professionally, sensitively and to the highest standards of conservation.

‘The completed attraction will tell a variety of stories around different themes, focusing on the Island’s rich maritime heritage with the nautical history of 18th and 19th century Castletown and the unique story of the Peggy – the centrepiece of the redeveloped site.’

The Peggy is the oldest complete vessel on the UK National Register of Historic Vessels whose fleet are assessed for significance based on their age, design innovations, historical associations, level of originality, condition and rarity.

While we wait to see how this plays out, we know one man who will be happy…