The project, still in development phase, has now passed 'Stage Two' which guarantees the funding set aside on passing 'Stage One'.

Tank Museum spokesman Nik Wyness said; “We passed Stage One in January 2005, and are delighted that the HLF still see fit to back our project. It means that we now have access to the money that has been pledged, and we can now begin the practical phase of development.”

In January 2005 the HLF set aside £8.5m, but have agreed to further support the project by increasing their offer by £1.1m bringing the total sum awarded to £9.6m.

Nerys Watts, HLF’s Regional Manager in the South West said; “This is the second phase in a major re-development of the whole of the Tank Museum’s site, creating new galleries for the vastly improved display of the collections and opening them up to the public, as well as improving the storage conditions for the tanks.

“The project will enable the museum to tell the full human story behind armoured warfare, including the people who served in the vehicles and those who helped to develop and manufacture them.”

Nik added; “This is a great boost for The Tank Museum, The South West region, and military museums in general.”