CHANGES could be on the way at one of Barry’s most established cultural attractions.
It’s been revealed discussions are being held over the future of Barry War Museum with the museum’s landlord Transport for Wales.
The museum was saved from the immediate threat of closure in May, after its previous lease at its Barry Island Station home expired.
Run by a community of volunteers known as the Barry at War Group, it has not required subsidy from public funds thanks to the patronage of entrepreneur John Buxton.
New landlord, Transport for Wales, is now in discussions with the museum exploring options for how it can be incorporated into its future plans for the site.
Jane Hutt MS has welcomed the discussions saying she hoped for a sustainable future for the museum.
”The Barry War Museum has delighted visitors for the last ten years at its Barry Island Station home,” said Ms Hutt.
“We hope the value and significance of the Barry War Museum, to both local people and visitors, will be recognised by Transport for Wales with a sustainable future secured for this popular Barry attraction.”
Barry’s only museum educates visitors about Barry’s wartime story and fight against fascism, featuring an original World War Two Anderson Shelter, and recreations of a First World War trench and 1940s kitchen.
The museum is brought further alive with volunteer reenactors telling the story of the Home Front as well as of the armed services.
It has a Trip Advisor rating of 5.0 - the highest rating by any local tourist attraction.
Glenn Booker, chairman of the Barry at War Group said the group would strive to ensure the museum’s future.
“We are delighted that Transport for Wales is entering discussions with us,” said Mr Booker.
“We will do everything we can to ensure our popular museum keeps telling its remarkable story and how we must learn from history.”
Entrepreneur John Buxton emphasised the museum was still important to the town.
“The museum has become an important feature of the town and we are keen to explore with TfW how both the museum and the station facilities may be enhanced for the benefit of the visitors and the community.”
TfW have been approached for comment on the discussions.
Further details about Barry War Museum at www.barrywarmuseum.co.uk.
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