Hull is set to benefit from a £20 million Government fund aiming to keep local museums open and thriving. The Government say that millions of people across England will be able to continue to celebrate their local heritage thanks to the new Museum Renewal Fund.
Hull Culture and Leisure, which manages the city’s museums on behalf of Hull City Council, is set to receive £272,095 from the fund. Hull Culture and Leisure, which is a company wholly owned by the council, also manages the city’s libraries, parks, theatres, and leisure centres.
The fund seeks to strengthen the country’s network of museums, ensuring that local communities have access to culture. It will help protect opening hours and job opportunities whilst strengthening museums’ ability to attract tourists.
The Arts Council England’s website states: “The funding is intended to help museums meet the shortfall between operating costs and income throughout their 2025-26 budget, where the shortfall results in a reduction of programming, footfall and days the museum(s) are open to the public.” The website also states: “Museum Renewal Fund grantees will be expected to undertake additional work to boost business and financial sustainability beyond 31 March 2026.”
Museums Minister, Baroness 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.”
Sir Nicholas Serota, Chair, Arts Council England said: “Travelling through cities, towns, and villages across the UK, I have seen that museums and art galleries are often a proud focal point in communities, telling important stories about history, people and place. This funding will provide a crucial lifeline for local museums in stabilising their financial situation and building towards a sustainable future.”
Welcoming the funding, Hull City Council’s Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure said: “We want to ensure that everyone in Hull can enjoy access to world-class collections. To support this commitment and meet growing expectations for programming and visitor services, the funding will help enhance opportunities for public support and improve retail and hospitality offers.
Jane Avison, Hull Museums & Gallery Manager added: “This investment marks an exciting step forward in building a more sustainable and inclusive future for our museums and gallery. This funding is a vital boost for Hull Museums and Gallery.
“It allows us to protect the roles of our talented engagement teams while investing in the future of our service. We’re excited to build a more resilient and responsive museum experience that continues to put our visitors at the heart of everything we do.”
By: Andrew Spence, LDRS
