The museum announced last week that when it is removed from the historic building’s main space. A 25-metre long blue whale skeleton will be suspended from the ceiling in its place in two years time, sparking speculation in the industry that the Hintze Hall’s maximum capacity could increase due to an increase in floor space.
However Simon Kershaw, head of catering and events at the Natural History Museum, told Event there will be no change to maximum guest numbers at private events.
"The capacities for the space will remain the same, with an enhanced visitor welcome area being created at the front of the hall," he said. "The Hintze Hall is our largest event space within the museum and, just as we have with the arrival of the stegosaurus in the Earth Hall, it is time to tell guests a different story when they are enjoying the function in this area."
Kershaw added: "While some may be sad to see Dippy go, it is time for other specimens from our 80-million-strong collections to inspire visitors. The blue whale will be a truly striking presence and will better connect guests to the museum’s bigger vision, linking more directly to human impact on the natural world and our chance to build a sustainable future."
News that Dippy would be leaving the space after a tenure of 38 years shocked fans of the London museum scene, with the hashtag #SaveDippy going viral on Twitter. The NHM said the decision marks the beginning of a change to its institution.
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