TRUSTEES of a museum showcasing Waltham Forest’s industrial heritage look set to meet London mayor Boris Johnson to discuss a planned expansion.

The Pump House Steam and Transport Museum has been in long-term negotiations with Waltham Forest Council to acquire the lease of its current site.

This will enable the museum to apply for funding for new facilities to house artefacts which have been offered by the National Rail, London Transport and Imperial War museums.

The museum already houses vintage vehicles, replica airplanes and other exhibits showcasing the borough’s industrial past.

Chingford MP Iain Duncan Smith visited the museum last Friday and pledged to set up a meeting between the trustees and Mr Johnson to discuss the expansion plans.

Lindsay Collier, who spearheads the project, said the museum could help put the borough on the map and attract tourism.

Mr Duncan Smith said: “I have long supported The Pump House and its ambitions to become a fully-fledged museum.

"It is a fantastic project and Lindsay Collier and the other trustees have had to steer a very difficult course through planning and funding, and I applaud their hard work.

"I will continue to support this outstanding project, rich in local history, and I will be fixing up a meeting so that they can brief Boris Johnson directly.”