Anger at the possible closure of museum

ANGRY Looe residents have joined forces to protest against plans which could force the closure of the town's only museum.

According to the building's owners, the East Looe Town Trust, the Old Guildhall building in Higher Market Street, has been a drain on finances for many years.

The trust is now considering leasing the listed building and is inviting proposals of use and rental offers to come forward.

But residents are furious Looe's museum is under threat.

Dave Holford said: "The building is being considered for rent by the trust for commercial aspects. This would have a devastating effect on the heritage of the town.

"The idea that the museum could be discarded and therefore the artifacts disposed of, thus denuding the town, is one that cannot be contemplated by those who pride themselves on the town's immense history.

"It is imperative that the museum is not ripped out of the heart of this quaint, historic town."

A meeting is now being organised to find ways to keep the museum open.

Mark Camp from the Tourist Information Centre said: "The trust might own the Old Guildhall, but they do not own the exhibits.

"These have been given by the people of Looe over the years to preserve the town's heritage. They need a home and where better than the finest historical building in the town? What else could it be used for? It is a listed building and any change of use would require planning consent.

"Myself and David Holford will be calling a meeting as soon as possible to discuss the museum's future and are happy to work with the Trust to sort things out. Looe Old Cornwall Society is also involved and members have already drawn up a proposal.

"There needs to be changes made, the museum, although not running at a loss, needs to raise its profile.

"If we are to keep it open then we must look to the future."

The building dates back to the 15th century and over time has been a magistrates' court, a jail and the town hall for the former Looe Urban District Council.

Artifacts in the museum illustrate the town's colourful past, including its naval port history in the 12th and 13th centuries and the pirate trade in the 17th century.

Mr Holford added: "Plans are being made for a public meeting to produce a group of volunteers whose responsibility it would be for the retention of the museum in the Old Guildhall, to increase its foot-fall and to make the museum more visible and viable. There are already a number of volunteers coming forward. Many more are needed to ensure that the museum becomes an even more important facet in the town.

"A link to the past providing education for all ages, with viewing, listening and learning opportunities, and an experience to remember."

Spokesperson for the East Looe Town Trust Jimmy Dingle said: "The trust is considering the future of the museum, nothing has been decided yet.

"The museum is not well attended and the trust, being a charity, must act in its best interest. Since an advert was published, a group of people have expressed an interest to do voluntary work. If this materialises it may alter the financial outcome of the premises.

"If people want to save it in its existing use perhaps they should come forward. The trust will assist in anyway it can."