Threatened museum thrown a lifeline

A Black Country attraction has been saved from closure until plans for a world-class glass museum in the borough are finalised.

Protesters who have been campaigning to keep Broadfield House glass museum open, were thrown a lifeline last night when Dudley Council voted to explore all alternatives before shutting down the attraction in Kingswinford.

Broadfield House had been earmarked to close next April to shave £120,000 off next year's council museums' budget and create one super-site for the borough's glass at the Red House Glass Cone, in Wordsley.

Councillor Pete Lowe, ward member for Lye and Wollescote, proposed a Notice Of Motion at the full council meeting to 'enhance and preserve' the area's glass heritage by engaging local experts in the consultation process.

The motion - which was approved unanimously - will ensure that a joint working party is formed to attract external funding for a national glass museum within Dudley's glass quarter.

Councillors also pledged to establish how the project could integrate with other heritage sites in the area, such as the extensive canal network.

The plans will provide a stay of execution for Broadfield House, in Compton Drive, as the possibility of establishing a charitable trust to save it is considered.

The move also guarantees that any profits from the sale of the site in the future will be ring-fenced for the creation of the new museum.

"This is a significant triumph and will allow the entire council to work together to protect our glass heritage for future generations," said Councillor Lowe.

More than 20 protesters who gathered outside the meeting to show their commitment to saving the renowned museum were delighted with the news.

Janet Hendry, leader of the Save Our Glass Heritage campaign, added: "The passing of the resolution is great news."