The beginning of a crucial plan to help preserve some of Wirral’s much-loved services was sketched out last night.
On Monday, Wirral Council voted for a budget which saved the Williamson Art Gallery, after it and other services such as Europa Pools had been up for the axe before Christmas.
In the build-up to the council’s budget meeting, the proposed cuts were slated by councillors and many residents alike.
But now the authority is working out how to make the museum service, which includes the Williamson and Birkenhead Priory, more self-sufficient.
Jo Burns, Wirral Council’s principal museums officer, explained one key part of the plan to councillors at last night’s tourism and leisure committee.
Ms Burns said the authority was looking at setting up more evening events.
Noting the importance of the evening economy, she said good money can be made on drinks such as alcohol and coffee.
The officer added that if more evening events were set up the museum service could attract those who may not be able to attend in the daytime.
For Ms Burns, setting up a “diverse” programme of events was key to the future of the Williamson and Birkenhead Priory.
She also spoke of supporting artists to grow their income, as well as generating more money from the Williamson’s cafe.
Chairing the committee, Conservative councillor Tom Anderson said it was up to fellow members to make sure the museum services met its budget target and the proposed cuts did not come forward again.
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Cllr Allan Brame, who represents Oxton, the ward in which the Williamson is located, said over 13,000 people signed a petition to save the art gallery.
He said those 13,000 people would be absolutely delighted with the decision to keep it open.
The Lib Dem councillor added that we must now harness the expertise and facilities at the Williamson and look forward to a brighter future.
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