Issue - meetings

To consider a recommendation from the Museum Management Working Group.

Councillor Ranger presented a report seeking approval of revised fees and charges for 2017/18 for services provided by Saffron Walden Museum.  He said that after a break of two years, the Museum was re-launching its services to schools during the autumn term, as there was now a new Learning & Outreach Officer in post.  Due to restrictions on teaching space in the Museum, it was intended to offer taught sessions in schools, requiring a new charge to be introduced.  Schools Loans boxes were also being revised and improved.  Members were asked to approve these charges, which were not within the 2017/18 budget. 

Councillor Redfern seconded the proposals, and suggested the Museum liaise with Saffron Walden Town Team, which aimed to direct people between Audley End and Saffron Walden. 

Councillor Rolfe agreed it was sensible to take a collective approach to drawing people in to the Town’s attractions. 

Councillor Howell said he was pleased to note the increase in visitors to the Museum during the last quarter. 

                                    RESOLVED

1  to approve the following recommendations from the Museum Management Working Group:

·         The fees for schools  as set out below

·         The revised loan box charge as set out below

·         That delegated authority be given to the Section 151 Officer to approve variations to published entrance fees, in consultation with the Curator.  Any variations to be reported quarterly to the Museum Management Working Group.

2  Fees for schools:  Visit from the Learning & Outreach Officer to bring objects and specimens from the education & handling collection to the school and deliver a taught session in the school classroom:  to be charged at £120 (£100 + £20 VAT) for a morning and £210 (£175 + £35 VAT) for a full day. These charges would apply to schools in Uttlesford and/or within 20 miles of Saffron Walden by road. Special requests to be priced according to costs of travel and staff-time.

3  Schools Loans Boxes:   to raise the loan box charge from £12 per half-term to raise this to £18 (£15 + £3 VAT).