£1.1 million for museums and libraries in Wales

The scheme aims to support local museums, archives and libraries to revitalise facilities with a particular focus on widening access, partnership working and developing sustainable services.

Five libraries will be modernised with the funding going towards new community facilities, and supporting the establishment of wider ‘hubs’ where people can access library services alongside a range of other amenities. Treorchy Library will be redeveloped and will work in partnership with the Park and Dare Theatre to create a new cultural hub for Treorchy to create a more modern and flexible space which can hold a wide range of events and activities.

In Rhayader, the Rhayader Museum and Gallery will see an Installation of a new mezzanine floor in a volunteer run museum to improve the exhibition space within the museum and create new storage areas for the collections.

As part of the multi-million Pendine Tourism Attractor project, the Museum of Land Speed, is being completely rebuilt. The funding will support the fit out of a multi-function education room, and a new exhibition space which will allow temporary displays and loans from national collections when the new development opens.

Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, Dawn Bowden, said:

“The Welsh Government remains committed to supporting these important services, which will be so important in helping Wales to recover from the impact of the pandemic. These projects will widen access for our communities, promoting cultural engagement, providing learning opportunities and supporting community cohesion and prosperity, which is needed now more than ever.

Minister for Finance and Local Government Rebecca Evans, said:

“Our museums, libraries and archives provide crucial services for both the community and visitors across Wales.

“I am pleased to help fund the upgrades and improvements needed, and look forward to seeing the results as these vital projects progress.