Attractions may be hired out as trust hunts for income

SOME of the city’s most popular attractions face an uncertain future as traditional public funding dries up amid the council’s financial crisis.

- ALEXANDER BROCK Local Democracy Reporter

Blakesley Hall, in Yardley, which is run by Birmingham Museums Trust

Bosses at Birmingham Museums Trust say its city attractions are now at a “critical crossroads”.

‘The trust has now unveiled a five-year strategy to reshape its attractions amid a “challenging” environment across the culture sector. A major focus will now be on securing alternative revenue streams.

‘The trust operates six historical sites: Aston Hall, Blakesley Hall, Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, Sarehole Mill, Soho House and Weoley Castle.

But it warned current funding was “inadequate to maintain, open and deliver a visitor experience at these”.

‘The Trust said it would continue to work with Birmingham City Council on a long-term solution to fund access so they “can remain open beyond 2025”.