This major refurbishment included a new atrium in the existing courtyard some 24m in height with lift and feature staircases linking to the various levels in the museum. Large span bridges are incorporated into the design linking over the existing main engineering hall to the second floor history galleries. The scheme radically improves access to the galleries. There are four new learning zones and a new high-level gallery for the display of glass, ceramics, silver and jewellery. A new Art Discovery Zone supported by the Friends of the Ulster Museum was created as part of the suite of art galleries. The design team worked closely with Haley Sharpe Design to ensure effective integration of the new exhibitions. The ground floor has been almost completely remodelled, with a new extension housing an enlarged restaurant and cafe with direct links to Botanic gardens. A HLF grant of ?4.5m was awarded and work commenced on-site in September 2007. The main construction contract completed in May 2009 and the museum opened to the public in October 2009.