Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has welcomed news that the Ripon Museums Trust has been awarded a substantial £2,573,493 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund’s ‘Inspiration for a Fairer Future’ initiative. The funding will support vital repairs to the Workhouse Museum roof, hire new staff across all three of Ripon’s museums and develop new visitor trails and experiences designed to attract 4,000 additional visitors annually.
The funding will enable Ripon Museums Trust to further cement its place as a key cultural and historical asset in the region. The organisation, which also oversees the Courthouse Museum and the Prison and Police Museum, will be able to carry out essential restoration work on the Workhouse Museum building, ensuring the protection of this historic site for future generations.
Julian, who has visited the museums on multiple occasions, expressed his delight at the news. Julian said, “This is a fantastic achievement for Ripon Museums Trust, and I congratulate them on securing such a significant grant. These funds will not only preserve an important part of Ripon’s heritage but also enrich the visitor experience, bringing more people into our city and benefiting the local economy. I have long supported the Trust’s work and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment will have on the community.”
The Trust plans to use the funding to collaborate with local organisations, including the YMCA and Wetherby Young Offenders Institute, to enhance community engagement. In doing so, it will provide educational opportunities and help foster a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history.
The award is part of the Heritage Fund’s broader strategy to support projects that contribute to building a fairer future through culture and heritage, making it a significant win for Ripon’s cultural landscape.
Julian added, “This funding is not just about preserving the past – it is an investment in the future of Ripon, helping to strengthen our community, educate young people and ensure that our heritage continues to inspire future generations.”
