THE covers have come off at the refurbished building on Legh Street, Lymm that is set to become the new Lymm Heritage Centre in June.
And on the very day that the almost completed building was revealed, news came through of an award of £88,200 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), which will enable the volunteer-led group to create a series of exhibitions and activities over the two year duration of the initial project.
The funding will also provide the means to create a series of learning resources and activities for schools and other local groups as well as develop an on-line digital archive accessible to all.
The project was initially made possible by local businessman Howard Platt who has personally purchased and funded the renovation of the building before handing it over to the Heritage Group for an initial three year period at zero rent.
The building is ideally located in the village centre close to the historic Bridgewater Canal on the site of former fustian workers’ and boatmens’ cottages. It will give the opportunity to tell Lymm’s story through the three main themes of trades, transport and tradition as well providing a great focal point where visitors can pick up information before exploring the rest of the village.
The project has already generated huge interest locally and more than 50 people have come forward to volunteer in a variety of capacities.
Group chairman Alan Williams said: “We will be aiming to illustrate Lymm’s rich heritage, by celebrating the stories of the people who have made their lives here, particularly over the past 250 years as Lymm experienced the changes wrought by the Transport and Industrial Revolutions.”
Local schools are looking forward to taking advantage of the new resource.
Jane Rooney, head at Statham Primary School said: “The location of the centre is ideal as it is at the heart of the village and within walking distance. Having the flexibility for our pupils to attend the centre and for centre resources to come to us will be a great way to explore local history topics which are so important to us.”
The centre is already planning its first exhibition to coincide with Lymm Historic Transport Day in June. The Quiet
Revolution will explore 150 years of cycling history and what it has meant to Lymm from the early visiting pioneers on penny farthings to present day tourism via the Trans-Pennine Trail.
Would-be volunteers can call Trish Cockayne on 01925 751646.
1 Comment
Huge congratulation in getting so far so soon. I was shown around the old building and I’m looking forward to the opening. Well done to all involved and Alan’s inspiration