National Museum and National Library of Wales Receive Additional Funding for Emergency Repairs [BBC]

The National Museum and National Library of Wales are set to receive an additional £3.7m for emergency repairs, but is it enough? According to Amgueddfa Cymru Chairwoman Kate Eden, the funding “won’t go far enough” to address the estimated £25m needed for critical urgent repairs at the National Museum building in Cardiff.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice Lesley Griffiths acknowledged the small amount of funding, describing the sight of buckets collecting rainwater in the museum as “horrific.” Despite the challenges, she emphasized the importance of prioritizing the urgent repairs to ensure the safety of the museum’s collections.

Ms. Eden echoed the sentiment, stating that while the money may not be sufficient, it is a positive step towards addressing the immediate needs of the museum. She highlighted the importance of obtaining technical expertise to put together a business case for future funding and making necessary improvements to enhance accessibility.

The National Museum, with its leaking roof and the need to relocate paintings during heavy rainfall, is in dire need of repairs. Ms. Griffiths emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that significant funding is required for a full repair of the museum’s roof.

In light of the funding challenges, Ms. Griffiths reprioritized the budget to allocate the necessary funds for the emergency repairs. She emphasized the importance of preserving iconic buildings like the National Museum over new construction projects, such as the proposed museum of north Wales and the National Contemporary Art Gallery scheme.

While the funding may not fully address the repair needs of the National Museum and National Library of Wales, it is a step in the right direction. The commitment to preserving these cultural institutions for future generations is crucial, and the additional funding will help ensure the safety and accessibility of the national collections.

As the repairs and renovations progress, it is essential to continue supporting these institutions and advocating for the necessary funding to preserve Wales’ rich cultural heritage. The National Museum and National Library play a vital role in preserving and showcasing the nation’s history, and it is imperative to ensure their long-term sustainability and accessibility for all.