Museum of Chelmsford awarded over £200,000 to become more financially sustainable
The UK Museum Renewal Fund will help the venue develop
Last updated 8th Oct 2025
Three museums in Essex are receiving a share of over £400,000 from the government's £20 million investment.
The Museum of Chelmsford has been awarded a grant of £236,000, to help it develop as a more financially sustainable venue.
The Museum, operated by Chelmsford City Council, tells the story of the district, from the Ice Age to the modern day.
The funds received are going to be used to "transform the visitor experience", with changes to the museum layout, the development of corporate partnerships and sponsorships, and finding new ways to make money.
Investment is also set to be made in the website and ticketing platform.
A "large part" of the grant will be used to help with the Museum's operating budget, which stands at £800,000.
Chelmsford City Council subsidises the venue, as it does not benefit from central government funding.
Jennie Lardge, Cabinet Deputy for Cultural Services at Chelmsford City Council, said that the grant was "excellent news" and that the money will "help a lot in this financial year."
"We are going to be using some of that money to put our experimental ideas within the museum. So, changing the layout of the museum, changing the website and ticketing experience, and also using some of the money to market the events we have coming up.#
"The museum has been looking at it's financial sustainability for quite a long period of time, because that pressure has been increasing.
"I absolutely think that it is going to help the museum become more sustainable in the long-term, so it gives a bit of respite for this financial year, and that gives the museum team a chance to work on their ideas.
"The money is incredibly valuable to the museum."
She also said that the museum is part of the "cultural identity of Chelmsford."
"It tells our stories, and connects our communities.
"Visiting a museum is really important for people's well-being, and that side of life as well.
"I think it is vital that the museum stays here and this money will allow that to happen."
Jennie also thanked the museum staff for their hard work on getting this money for the museum.
The other museums receiving investment are in Colchester and Southend.