The £20 million Museum Renewal Fund is set to be distributed among 75 museums with the aim of improving and protecting public access to collections, community and educational programmes, opening hours and job opportunities.
Funds will go towards strengthening the museums’ ability to attract tourists and employers as well as to ensure they remain fit for the future, with local politicians welcoming the long-awaited boost.
David Burton-Sampson, Labour MP for Southend West and Leigh, said: “I’m really pleased that the Museum Renewal Fund is investing in Southend Museum Service as one of 75 museum organisations benefitting from new grants from the Labour Government – something I’ve been pushing for.”
The Southend East and Leigh MP highlighted the world-leading collection of Saxon artifacts on display at the museum, with the leader of Southend Council hailing the support for the city’s heritage and science museums.
Daniel Cowan, Labour leader of Southend Council said: “Southend has the greatest collection of Saxon artefacts in the country and many other fabulous exhibits, so this is great news for Southend.
“It will enable us to welcome more people to our fantastic museums and planetarium and I thank the Government for their continued investment in culture and heritage.”
The funding provided as part of a broader £270 million plan to safeguard the arts for “generations to come” under the Labour Government’s Plan For Change, with the cash injection designed to reinforce the network of museums across the UK.
Museums minister Baroness Fiona Twycross said: “Museums offer a place where people from all backgrounds can learn, be inspired and delve into our rich history, helping to understand the stories that led us to where we are today.
“The Museum Renewal Fund is contributing to the delivery of our plan for change.
“It ensures much-loved civic museums can remain open and continue to provide opportunities for future generations to learn about our shared heritage and how their local community has played its part in our national story.”
