Sheffield's Graves Gallery is set to close at the end of October as part of a significant refurbishment of the Central Library building, which houses the gallery, archives, and associated collections. The decision follows the discovery of failures in the building's heating system that recently posed risks to the city's artworks, prompting urgent investigations into the structure's mechanical and building systems before wider redevelopment can commence.

The refurbishment project aims to enhance accessibility, facilities and visitor experience across the complex whilst protecting and preserving the existing art collection during the works. Museum officials have indicated the gallery's holdings are expected to return to the site once the improvements are complete, allowing the institution to reopen with modernised amenities and improved environmental conditions for both visitors and the artworks it stewards.