National Slate Museum in Llanberis set to become world-class visitor attraction
Over the Bank Holiday weekend, Culture Secretary Lesley Griffiths paid a visit to the National Slate Museum in Llanberis to observe the ongoing redevelopment efforts aimed at elevating the venue into a premier destination for visitors worldwide. Griffiths also urged people to take advantage of the opportunity to explore the museum.
The Welsh Government has already allocated over £1 million in funding to support the redevelopment project, which includes expanding museum space for exhibitions and activities, as well as providing adequate office facilities for staff. Additionally, the Museum has secured funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to further its redevelopment plans, with a focus on becoming a primary interpretation centre for the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales UNESCO World Heritage Site. The funding with also help develop new creative spaces.
Situated at the base of what was once one of the world’s largest slate quarry, Dinorwig Quarry, the museum is set within the original engineering workshops constructed in 1870, where thousands of workers were once employed. After the quarry ceased operations in 1969, it reopened as a museum in 1972. Subsequent redevelopment took place in 1999, and plans for further enhancements are currently underway.
Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Lesley Griffiths said: “The Bank Holiday presents a great opportunity for people to visit our museums and learn more about the incredibly interesting stories they have to tell.
“The slate industry is an important part of the communities, landscapes and heritage of this part of Wales and the National Slate Museum offers a unique opportunity to glimpse into the lives of the slate workers and their families.
“I have been very impressed with what I’ve seen, and I am pleased the Welsh Government, along with the National Lottery Heritage Fund, has been able to provide funding towards its redevelopment and ensure it continues to offer great experiences for all visitors.
“I would encourage everybody to visit the Museum and learn more about the fascinating history of the area’s slate industry.”
Chief Executive of Amgueddfa Cymru, Jane Richardson said: “We were delighted to welcome Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice, Lesley Griffiths MS to Amgueddfa Lechi Cymru – National Slate Museum, to show the breadth and depth of our work in north Wales and the innovative ways we can tell the story of slate.
“We’re excited to work with the Welsh Government and our partners, Cyngor Gwynedd and National Lottery Heritage Fund, as we redevelop the Museum into a UNESCO World Heritage site hub. This transformational project will allow us to create spaces to support traditional skills, learning and wellbeing and better connect with everyone, from local communities to those from further afield, enabling them to find their story through our national collection.”