Arts Council England has highlighted concerns relating to the economic resilience of Local Authority (LA) museums following spending cuts, but also gives some case studies which celebrate the success of those who thrive and suggests ways of dealing with museum-related heritage and arts activities in the current economic climate.
Arts Council England writes:
Arts Council England has today (1 October) published new research into the economic resilience of local authority museums.
The independent report by TBR explores the challenges faced by museums across England following reductions to local authority funding. It highlights the significant level of current and expected cuts, but also finds that many local authority museums are doing well. Key success criteria are strong, proactive leadership, alignment with local authority priorities, and a culture of enterprise not only in a museum but in its local authority.
John Orna-Ornstein, Director, Museums, Arts Council England, said: ’Even at a time of challenge many local authority museums are thriving. We’re seeing museums across the country whose own enterprising spirit is matched by their local authority – the two must go hand in hand. Local authority investment in culture and heritage is vital, but we are working in tough economic times. This research is a challenge to local authorities as well as to museums, to seek out creative ways to see our nation’s museums flourish for future generations. No one size fits all, but there are plenty of models for strategic, thoughtful change at a time of reduced funding.’
