The birthplace of rugby will be the permanent home for the sport’s Hall of Fame, which will celebrate legends and definitive moments in its history.

Billed as a “fully-interactive and immersive museum”, the Hall of Fame will be located within Rugby’s art gallery, museum and library, which is based in the heart of the Warwickshire town.

Governing body World Rugby and Rugby Borough Council have partnered up on the project, which will open its doors in late 2016.

Fan engagement will be at the heart of the project, with visitors encouraged to get into rugby either as a player or a fan. World Rugby Hall of Fame and the council will also support community education programmes for local people in the town.

It builds on the interest generated during England’s hosting of the Rugby World Cup last year, when 40,000 fans descended on Rugby for a dedicated programme of activities during the tournament.

“Having a destination to celebrate and honour the achievements of those who have shaped the sport and inspired generations of players, coaches and referees is a very exciting development,” said World Rugby chair Bernard Lapasset.

Michael Stokes, leader of Rugby Borough Council, added: “Rugby is the proud home of the game and I’m delighted that as a result of this partnership between the council and World Rugby that it will also be the home of a world-class visitor attraction and here for many years to come as a destination for visitors from around the world.”