Falkirk Museum Saved from Closure as Masterplan for Kinneil Estate to be Developed
In a recent turn of events, the fate of the Kinneil Museum located on Kinneil Estate in Bo’ness has been given a reprieve. Initially facing closure as part of Falkirk Council’s strategic property review, which aimed to close or transfer over 100 council-owned properties, the museum will now be kept open temporarily. This decision comes as the council has agreed to delay the closure in order to develop a masterplan for the entire estate.
The announcement to close the museum in September sparked outrage among the community, especially the Friends of Kinneil volunteers group. They had been under the impression that no decision would be made until a review of the masterplan for the wider estate had been completed. Lead officer Paul Kettrick acknowledged a “miscommunication” and admitted that the council could have been clearer about its intentions.
Kinneil Estate, home to the museum, is steeped in history and boasts connections to figures such as Mary Queen of Scots and James Watt. The estate is also located near the Roman Antonine Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a significant historical site. The Friends of Kinneil group believes that by leveraging the estate’s natural beauty and historical importance, tourism in the area could be further developed.
While some council members emphasised the importance of exploring external funding opportunities to enhance Kinneil Estate, others cautioned about the potential high costs involved in such investments. Despite the ongoing discussions, the threat of closure still looms over the museum, with some believing that it could serve as a catalyst for bringing stakeholders together to drive positive changes.
In light of the recent developments, the SNP, Labour, and Independent councillors have agreed to postpone any decision on closure until further talks with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) regarding the estate’s masterplan have taken place. Despite differing opinions on the way forward, all parties seem aligned in their commitment to preserving the historical significance of Kinneil Estate and ensuring its long-term viability.
As discussions continue, the future of Kinneil Museum remains uncertain, with stakeholders advocating for a balanced approach that considers both the preservation of heritage and the economic sustainability of the estate. The coming months will prove pivotal in shaping the destiny of this historical gem nestled in the heart of Falkirk.