A MUSEUM which was thought to have been consigned to history just six months ago has revealed more on plans to transform itself into a ‘museum for Kidderminster’.
The Museum of Carpet, which has served as a centre of learning, culture, and heritage, was thought to have closed for the final time in December after ‘significant financial challenges.’
In February, Wyre Forest District Council gave a grant of £25,000 a year for two years to support the development of a new business model for the museum.
This grant was to help the building transform itself from a museum focusing on the story of the carpet industry to one which embraces all aspects of Kidderminster’s rich history.
The Chair of the museum’s Board of Trustees, Geoffrey Gilbert, has spoken to the Standard about how the museum has performed since re-opening, as well as its plans for trhe future.
He said the volunteers were sad and frustrated when the museum closed last year, but was astonished at the level of public support after the announcement.
After 1,200 visitors attended a trial re-opening during February half-term, volunteers and trustees agreed that, if they were able to raise the funds necessary to keep it open, they would.
It is currently open between 10am and 2pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Mr Gilbert said: “We should be clear the Wyre Forest Council money is not a grant to cover operating costs; rather, these are funds which must specifically be spent on transforming the remit of the museum and broadening its scope and appeal.
“Our volunteers are confident that we can do this, however, and we have started to hold different events aimed at bringing in new audiences.
“Our future, then, lies in transforming into a ‘museum for Kidderminster’ utilising the funding made available by the council.
“The Carpet Museum Trust and a Transformation Group will work together to create a vision for the new heritage offer in Kidderminster whilst maintaining the operational work of keeping the Museum open and giving access to the archive and other collections.
“The Transformation Group will come together shortly, with invitations to a constituent meeting being sent out in the next week or so.
“We are very excited to be part of the creation of bringing Kidderminster’s heritage to life in a way which reaches out across our community.”
The museum is also looking to interact more with the local business community, local wellbeing, sporting groups and institutions in the town and develop its programme of visits from schools in the area.
Tappeto Lounge has recently shown its support by running a fundraising month for the Museum in June.
Mr Gilbert said the museum had been fortunate in how many volunteers had made a ‘considerable commitment’ to help manage and operate the museum.
He added visitor numbers have increased on the days they are open, but not as much as they would like.
Call 01562 69028, visit museumofcarpet.org.uk/ or email [email protected] to volunteer or support the Museum of Carpet.
