Issue - meetings

The Joint Committee received a presentation on the Museums Worcestershire Annual Review for 2017-18.

In the ensuing debate, the following principal points were raised:

·         In response to a concern about the number of visitors attending Museums Service venues from outside the Worcester City, Helen Large explained that certain exhibitions attracted around 46% of visitors from outside the city which gave the local economy a boost of approximately £1.5m

·         Were any items available in storage that could fill some of the display voids at the Commandery? Phillippa Tinsley advised that efforts would be made to find exhibits to fill display areas. However, there was an expense to bringing stored artefacts up to the necessary display quality. A decision would need to be made as to whether to make funds available for this purpose at the Commandery or refurbish the Art Gallery and Museum 

·         Who had responsibility for the maintenance of the green spaces at Hartlebury Museum? Philippa Tinsley advised that apart from an orchard area that was leased to the Museums Service, the grounds of the Castle were now the responsibility of Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust

·         In response to a query, Philippa Tinsley advised that the Annual Review would be published on the museums service web site, and circulated to key partners and stakeholders as well as all members of the City and County Council.

RESOLVED that the Museums Worcestershire Annual Review for 2017-18 be approved.