Andrew Snowden MP has welcomed action by Fylde Council to safeguard the Lytham St Annes Art Collection following a recent meeting with Barbara Weston and Margaret Race from the Friends of the Lytham St Annes Art Collection.
The Council has agreed to establish a new charitable trust to protect the Collection, which includes around 400 artworks donated over the last century, including the world famous paintings of Richard Ansdell, after whom Ansdell is named. The move will provide stronger long term legal protection for the Collection and ensure it remains accessible to the public, particularly at a time of uncertainty ahead of potential local government reorganisation.
The decision builds on earlier investments by Fylde Council, including £50,000 to improve secure storage facilities at Lytham Town Hall and a £65,000 grant to transform the Long Gallery at Lytham Hall, providing a free to visit, high quality space to display the artworks.
Andrew Snowden MP said:
"It was a real pleasure to meet Barbara and Margaret and see first-hand the dedication and care they put into preserving this incredible collection. These artworks are a vital part of our local history and culture, and it’s fantastic that Fylde Council has taken steps to protect them for generations to come."
He added:
"Our art collection belongs to this community, and I’m pleased that we have such passionate people working hard to make sure it stays that way."
Leader of Fylde Borough Council, Councillor Karen Buckley said:
“This Collection is one of Fylde’s most valuable assets, and this charitable trust ensures it is properly protected for the benefit of local people. It celebrates the generosity of its early donors and will continue to inspire and educate residents and visitors for generations to come.”
