The Stirling Smith's 144-year history could come to an end unless plans to stop funding the gallery are reversed
A campaign has been launched to save a popular museum which faces a fight for its future.
The Smith Art Gallery and Museum has said that Stirling Council proposals to remove its funding by 2023 mean that the future is bleak for the facility, which opened in 1874.
Operated by an independent trust which is also a registered charity, the museum hosts more than 20 local community groups and works closely with schools in Stirling, whilst also being home to a range of historical artefacts and works by local artists.
A petition calling for the Smith to be saved has attracted 3,000 supporters in less than 24 hours, and supporters have said that they will fight against the harsh funding cuts.
An open letter to Stirling Council said: “Stirling’s key assets are its built and natural environment and its people. Our cultural heritage is internationally recognised and marks Stirling out on an international stage.
“We encourage elected members to recognise the cultural and economic contribution the Smith has made, and aspires to make in the future, to Stirling’s success. Significant budget cuts in the support given to the Smith will have an adverse effect on a range of council objectives and damage a high quality cultural and economic asset.”
The letter has highlighted the free education services that are provided at the Smith, the 40,000 visitors that go through its doors every year, its work to help attract tourists to stay in the area and that the museum was identified as a key part of the City Deal.
Stirling Council’s Priority Budget Proposals reveal that annual funding for the museum of £242,000 would be removed by the end of the financial year 2022/23.
A Stirling Council spokesman said: “It is important to stress that no decisions have been taken. This is one of a number of budget options which we’re encouraging the public to provide their views on, via the budget consultation. All of the feedback received will be collated and help to inform councillors when they meet to set the budget on 22 February.”
