07.07.06
Investment to boost visitors at Maritime Museum

£150,000 of Objective One investment has been approved for the National Maritime Museum Cornwall Visibility and Accessibility project.

The aim of project, which will cost about £611,000 is to encourage more visitors to the Falmouth-based museum. It will include improvements to the approach and entrance to the striking building, the reception area and the shop. There will also be remodelling of the interior layout and development of a new, Falmouth gallery.

The approval of the Objective One European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) investment follows the news that planning permission for the improvements have been granted by Carrick District Council.

One of the most stunning aspects of the new design will be the installation of a 16 square metre glass door, replacing the large wooden door currently seen as visitors approach from the events square. The aim is to allow the interior of the building to be seen from the outside.

Carleen Kelemen, Director of the Objective One Partnership, said: "This investment will encourage more visitors and help to secure the future of what is already an eye-catching building."

Jonathan Griffin, Director of National Maritime Museum Cornwall, added: "Having lived and worked with the building over the last three years, like any home, you get to know the improvements needed to enhance the internal and external aspects. Our visitors have told us the improvements they're looking for and these alterations are a direct response to their requests.

"People find the Museum and its entrance difficult to find. Flags, banners, more windows, an illuminated canopy and enhanced signage will make it more obvious and open, and will help to integrate it both with the square and the town.

"Visitors also have problems finding the areas devoted to the maritime history of Cornwall which is a popular subject which we want to strengthen. Internal changes will make these galleries increasingly visible and will allow us to expand the number of stories we can cover in future exhibitions."

Ellen Winser, Chair of Trustees at the Maritime Museum concludes: "This project is not just an investment in the Museum but an investment in Falmouth. We have always seen ourselves, and hope others see us, as a catalyst for regeneration for the town and these plans through the support of Objective One funding will allow us to improve our business performance and thus deliver more for Falmouth."

For further information please contact Clare Morgan, Media Relations Manager, Objective One Partnership on 01872 223439 or email: cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk.

The Objective One Programme for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has invested in the National Maritime Museum Cornwall Visibility and Accessibility project through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Editor's notes:

Clare Morgan
Media Relations Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Mobile: 07973 813647
Telephone: 01872 223439

cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk

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