04-07-2025
St Helens World of Glass museum fears closure over rising costs
Staff at a museum dedicated to a town's glass manufacturing history have said they fear rising costs mean they "won't be able to keep our doors open" after three free World of Glass venue in St Helens, Merseyside has been visited by more than 1 million people since opening in director Sarah Taylor said: "It's just got a bit difficult lately - we are seeing rising costs with energy costs and staffing costs."More than £10,000 has been donated to the venue, run by an independent charity, after it launched a crowdfunder to raise £50,000 to help it remain open.
Ms Taylor said: "We're just in a position now where if we don't raise the money, we won't be able to keep our doors open in the next three months."The museum recently reduced opening days to lower running costs, with the museum closed on Mondays and local library, which is located at the venue, will remain open on those days.
Councillor Sue Murphy, cabinet member for culture at St Helens Borough Council, described the museum, which offers glassblowing demonstration and school visits, as "a much-loved visitor attraction that plays a vital role in preserving and sharing our borough's rich industrial heritage".She said that "now more than ever, while our town centre is undergoing transformative regeneration to restore its vibrancy and vitality, we sincerely hope they can find a sustainable path forward".The council said the building receives 100% relief on its business rates and is supported by council officers' advice on external funding sources.
Core funding for UK arts and cultural organisations fell by 18% between 2010 and Taylor said: "Despite the continued support from valued partners like St Helens Borough Council, the financial pressures we face as a charitable organisation have become unsustainable under current conditions."We've been in the centre of St Helens culture for the past 25 years and want to be around for the next 25 and beyond."
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