HLF announces support worth more than £55million to 12 projects across England
From gardens and galleries to wartime cinemas and the story of a city, today’s investment is set to secure some of the nation’s much-loved heritage, create employment and volunteer opportunities and boost tourism and local economies.
Among the properties benefiting is William Morris’s Kelmsmott Manor in Oxfordshire.The Grade I listed Manor and its grounds are intrinsically linked with the story of the English designer, writer and social activist. Many of Morris’ works were inspired by the historic and natural environment of Kelmscott which helped shape his views on conservation. Morris once observed that the buildings looked as if they had ‘”grown up out of the soil”.
Hyde Park Picture House in Leeds, the UK’s only surviving gas-lit cinema, also thought to be one of the oldest small picture houses, has gas ‘modesty’ lighting which was introduced to shake off the disreputable image of earlier ‘penny gaffs’ where audiences would sit in complete darkness.
£4.7m is going to explore the country’s polar, Pacific and maritime heritage in the new Endeavour Galleries at National Maritime Museum, within the Greenwich World Heritage Site.There will be £14.8m for a new Plymouth History Centre to bring five collections together and put heritage at the heart of the city and £3.9m to transform access to St Albans Cathedral and retell the story of Britain’s first Christian saint
Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch said: “Our heritage provides us with a sense of identity and helps boost tourism, local economies and people’s wellbeing. These grants will have a huge impact on a range of projects across England. I am delighted that, thanks to National Lottery players, we are able to help preserve important parts of our heritage for the public to enjoy.”
Ros Kerslake. HLF Chief Executive said: “Whether sharing the source of William Morris’ inspiration, or saving a century of cinema and community heritage, the impact of National Lottery players’ money reaches far and wide. Today’s investment will boost tourism and local economies, secure some of our nation’s heritage for future generations to enjoy and provide some fantastic opportunities for volunteers and visitors of all ages.”
