Attitudes towards local museums
Across the country there are stark examples of the cultural philistinism of local councils. It seems as though we are forgetting the traditional cultural purpose of local government. Decisions seem financially driven, with little popular consultation, leaving local people outraged.
According to a recent Demos report, the trend is likely to continue. The report’s author, John Holden claims that cultural provision is patchy but because 'of the way that culture is treated - legislatively, financially and philosophically - at local authority level, the situation is likely to get worse unless we do something about it'.
What can be done – is it time for a proper assessment and a debate about reform? Do we need to consider making culture a statutory spending requirement?
There are currently several high profile cases attracting press interest:
Cuts made by Waltham Forest Council will mean a reduction in the opening times of William Morris Gallery, staff restructuring and a fear that the loss of specialist curators will put the manuscript collections and decorative art stock off limits. But given that the council needs to make savings of £56,000 what are the alternatives?
In February it was announced that financial pressures on local government would force the closure of Wandsworth Museum. But now Wandsworth Council is joining forces with the Hintze Family Charitable Foundation, a major international sponsor of the arts, to establish a brand new plan for Wandsworth Museum at the heart of the local community.
The proposal will involve the setting up of an independent trust to manage the museum. Are such arrangements the way forward?
Let us know your views…
Topic posted: 24 April 2007.
To post comments please login or register.