Royal Cornwall Museum secures £1.5m funding to protect their future
The museum in Truro faced closure last year
Last updated 20th Mar 2023
The Royal Cornwall Museum has been granted funding to secure its future.
The RCM in Truro, which was at risk of closure last year, is getting almost one and a half million pounds from the government.
Across Devon and Cornwall, there will be a £5.8m boost for culture.
MP for Truro and Falmouth Cherilyn Mackrory has welcomed the news:
"I am delighted to see more than a million pounds in funding from the Arts Council to help protect the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro.
"This will enable the team there to protect and conserve this iconic building to keep it both at the heart of Truro but also as a valuable resource for ours and future generations across Cornwall".
More than 70 cultural organisations across the country are to be given a financial boost by the government so they can improve people’s access to arts, support local economic growth through culture and safeguard vital local collections for future generations.
They will share a pot of £58.8 million which will see arts venues transformed, upgraded and created as part of the government’s plans to make sure everyone, no matter where they live, can access the UK’s world-renowned culture.
Arts Council England will deliver this fund on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer said: "This investment will help to level up access to arts and culture for everyone, no matter where they live.
"Culture helps us create lifelong memories with our families and friends, provides entertainment and joy, and allows us to explore the world around us in new and exciting ways. It can also boost tourism, support local business and drive local economic growth.
"This funding will support brilliant arts organisations to upgrade their venues and create new projects that will be at the heart of their communities.”
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England said: "Investment in creativity and culture is a catalyst for improving well-being and raising aspirations, reinvigorating pride in communities, regenerating high streets and local economies, and bringing people together.
"We are pleased to play a part in delivering the Cultural Investment Fund and this £58 million investment will help create new, or improve existing, cultural buildings and spaces in our villages, towns and cities. By doing so it will support recovery and growth and unlock the creative potential of those who live and work in communities across England".
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said:
"Culture, heritage and the arts all contribute to people’s sense of belonging and place. These grants will help to reinforce this and we welcome them".