A proposed redevelopment of St Fagans Museum aims to boost visitor figures to 1 million a year, Plaid AM Chris Franks said.
The Museum of Welsh Life, which currently draws around 560,000 people annually to its sprawling site on the edge of Cardiff, recently cleared the first hurdle in its quest for an £8.7 million lottery grant. If the bid for the Heritage Lottery Fund cash is successful, it will be put towards a proposed £20.75m upgrade.
During questions to Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones in the Senedd earlier this week, Plaid AM Chris Franks asked for details of the proposed redevelopment.
Mr Jones replied: “…I am assured that the redevelopment of the museum will ensure that it not only maintains its position at the heart of Welsh cultural life and its status as Wales’s premier free tourist attraction, but becomes a far more user-friendly place where there is much more interaction between the visitor, the buildings, and the various exhibits.
“St Fagans has already gone down that route to a great extent, but those in charge there obviously feel that they can do more and that that will, eventually, lead to more people, especially families, going there.”
Afterwards, Mr Franks said: “I understand the redevelopment will see the existing main building being refurbished as well as two areas of new build being established.
“If the bid is successful, the money will also be used to improve orientation around the site and create an experimental outdoor archaeology area. It is envisaged the improvements will boost visitor numbers to 1 million a year and bring with it a number of economic benefits to the Welsh economy.”
He added: “I am a full of admiration for St Fagans National History Museum and the work it does to vividly explain and detail the history and unique culture of Wales.
“I would be delighted if the funding bid is successful because the proposed exciting changes would huge improvements to what is already a fantastic attraction and asset for this country.”
