North Cornwall MP Meets Minister to Discuss Museum Funding

The Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, Ben Maguire, has met with the Museums Minister, Baroness Twycross, to push for greater support for museums and cultural organisations across the constituency.

Ben secured the meeting following ongoing engagement with local museums and heritage groups, raising funding challenges and opportunities in Parliament on their behalf.

Concerns Over Bodmin Keep Closure

One of the key sites discussed was Bodmin Keep, a historic military museum that has been closed since summer 2024 due to the need for significant structural repairs.

During the meeting, Ben pressed for support to help secure the future of the museum, including access to upcoming funding streams that could support restoration and long term sustainability.

Supporting Culture and Education in North Cornwall

The discussion also covered the work of the Causley Trust in Launceston, which promotes the legacy of Cornish poet Charles Causley through community arts, education programmes, cultural events, and creative work in and around the town.

Ben also highlighted the role of the science museum Discovering42, pointing to its hands on approach to education for young people across North Cornwall. He stressed the need for clearer funding pathways, particularly for innovative and non traditional museums.

MP Shares Update After Minister Meeting

Commenting after the meeting, Ben Maguire said:

“I was pleased to meet with the Museums Minister to make the case for some of the fantastic cultural organisations we have here in North Cornwall. The Minister outlined a number of potential funding routes and support mechanisms that I have now shared directly with each museum, and discussions are now ongoing to connect these organisations with relevant schemes and opportunities.

“We have some really historic sites like Bodmin Keep, as well as modern and innovative educational spaces. These museums play a really vital role in our local history, education, and cultural identity, and North Cornwall has the potential to become to cultural capital of the South West.

“I look forward to continue working closely with the Minister, and of course with the local organisations themselves, to ensure they are able to access the proper support they need to thrive for years to come.”

📷Ben meeting Baroness Twycross