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Lincolnshire County Council looks to hand over management of Discover Stamford




Lincolnshire County Council is investigating whether it should hand over control of a heritage display in Stamford to an outside party.

The decision forms part of wider plans that look at the future of heritage services and sites across the county.

The county council said a proposed blueprint for heritage services promised a more sustainable approach, meaning people would get to enjoy Lincolnshire’s rich history for decades to come.

Nick McCulloch from Seattle Washington US who is studying at Harlaxton College Grantham Picture: Lee Hellwing
Nick McCulloch from Seattle Washington US who is studying at Harlaxton College Grantham Picture: Lee Hellwing

The council is exploring whether it should hand over operation of various sites, including the Discover Stamford heritage display located in the library, to outside parties such as community groups or parish and town councils.

The council’s collections manager Ron Frayne said the process was still very much in the early stages.

“There was a heritage service review in 2009 that resulted in the creation of Discover Stamford which replaced the Stamford Museum,” he said.

“The aim was to ensure there was still a heritage offering in the town and the display alongside the Stamford Library opened in 2012.”

Ron said it provided visitors with a brief history and development of the town, and was maintained and operated by the county council.

“It is a permanent display meaning there is no change to exhibits and has no staff on site,” he said.

“It is only open during the hours that the library is open and has become tired and limited.

“What we are now trying to do is identify local groups interested in managing Discover Stamford.”

Discover Stamford is a heritage display located in Stamford Library Picture: Lee Hellwing (6561187)
Discover Stamford is a heritage display located in Stamford Library Picture: Lee Hellwing (6561187)

Ron said that other than “informal discussions” held with Stamford Town Council, they had not spoken to any other parties.

“The process is still very much in the early stages and no decisions have been taken, but anyone interested is welcome to get in touch with the council and we can discuss the matter,” he said.

“We want to ensure the collections are kept locally but these are still proposals so we would welcome feedback from people in Stamford on this matter.”

Stamford Town Clerk Patricia Stuart-Mogg confirmed they had held talks with county officials.

“We have been in early discussions and are looking at various arrangements but nothing has been formalised yet,” she said.

“It would be great if we could do that (take over Discover Stamford) and the town council is very positive about this.”

A county council spokesman said the various proposals will be discussed by the council’s Public Protection and Communities Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday.

“Potential operation of Discover Stamford is something that will be explored during the consultation process, assuming that is approved by the council’s executive members on February 5,” said the spokesman.

“It is proposed that a 10-week consultation on the plans will begin mid-February, with a final decision taken later in the year, once we’ve had a chance to fully digest the feedback.”

Discover Stamford is a heritage display located in Stamford Library Picture: Lee Hellwing (6561196)
Discover Stamford is a heritage display located in Stamford Library Picture: Lee Hellwing (6561196)

Coun Nick Worth (Con), executive member for culture, said the council was proud of its local heritage and wanted to ensure it was there for future generations to enjoy.

“However, that means finding a new way of doing things, and, importantly, one that we’ll be able to afford in the long-term.”

He said by providing greater support for community-run sites, council could ensure that everyone had the opportunity to experience Lincolnshire’s culture and heritage.

“We know our heritage attractions are well-loved locally, and that people will want to share their views on our plans. So, to that end, we’re planning to hold a consultation giving everyone ample opportunity to have their say.

“We’re very much keeping an open mind and welcome any suggestions on the best way forward for our heritage services.”

l What do you think? E-mail your views to: smeditor@stamfordmercury.co.uk



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