The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has today announced first-round pass¹ decisions on three major² projects: Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester; Lincoln Castle; and the National Railway Museum in York. They have all also been awarded development funding to help progress their plans.
Dame Jenny Abramsky, Chair of the HLF, said:
“These three major projects were chosen as they are truly transformational. As heritage ‘classics’ they are important to the identity of the UK and very much reflect the rich histories of ordinary people. Having offered our initial support, applicants can now develop their plans to revitalise these wonderful places for the next generation to enjoy.”
Lincoln Castle – development funding of £227,640 towards a potential application for £6million
Dating from 1068, Lincoln Castle is home to one of only four surviving copies of Magna Carta. Its historic walls enclose a Grade II* listed castle prison and part of Lincolnshire County Council’s plans involve telling the intriguing story of the prison as well as exploring the issues of democracy, justice and punishment across the centuries. This project has big ambitions and is set to turn an iconic but underused visitor attraction into the thriving heart of Uphill Lincoln, drawing in many more tourists and regenerating the surrounding area.
The Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester – development funding of £152,000 towards a potential application for £6million
Grade II listed Whitworth Art Gallery is a legacy of the 18th-century industrialist Sir Joseph Whitworth. It opened to the public in 1889 with displays of contemporary textiles and fine art and over the years has developed to include valuable works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Turner and Cezanne, as well as a significant collection of wallpapers. Whilst already a successful visitor attraction, there is a need for a larger, more flexible display space and the Whitworth’s innovative plans include an extension for the learning and gallery areas as well as the creation of a more welcoming park-facing entrance.
The National Railway Museum, York – development funding of £200,000 towards a potential application for £6.8million
The National Railway Museum (NRM) is one of the UK’s treasured museums and home to some of the most famous locomotives in the world, including Flying Scotsman and Mallard. It plans to completely revamp the displays in its largest exhibition space, the Great Hall, providing an enhanced visitor experience that tells the fascinating stories of how railways have shaped the modern world.
Reference:
For the Heritage Lottery Fund, please contact Katie Owen, HLF Press Office, on tel: (020) 7591 6036 mobile: 07973 613820.http://www.hlf.org.uk/english
