Kilmartin Museum lands £3.2m windfall

KILMARTIN Museum has received a redevelopment grant of £3.2 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Money raised by National Lottery players now means the project has taken a leap forward to becoming a reality.

The museum hopes to start building work in January 2019 and aims to have the project finished by summer 2020.

The number of visitors to the museum is expected to increase to 44,000 that year, with the redeveloped museum having a £5.8 million positive economic impact in its first year.

The project aims to transform Kilmartin Museum into a landmark venue celebrating the global significance of Kilmartin Glen, one of the most significant archaeological landscapes in Brit- ain. The completion of the project will also enable the museum to care for its collection of artefacts, some of which are of international significance.

A major extension designed by award-winning architects Reiach and Hall will join the two existing buildings, creating a seamless museum.

Crucially, the project will safeguard the archaeological collections in Argyll for future generations.

Commenting on the award, Dr Sharon Webb said: ‘We’re absolutely delighted after years of dedicated work on the part of the museum staff and volunteer trustees that, thanks to National Lottery players, we’ve received this support.

‘The award means we’ve nearly reached our fundraising target, bringing the implementation of the project closer. Applications have been lodged for the remainder, but there is still a £100,000 funding gap, which we will be working on closing in the coming months. The award also represents well deserved and long overdue UK level recognition of Kilmartin Museum, our collections and of Mid Argyll’s unique cultural and natural heritage.’