In a significant cultural development, Gwynedd’s National Slate Museum, located in Llanberis, is set to undergo a transformative £19,000,000 redevelopment to turn it into a world-class visitor attraction. This ambitious project, boosted by over £400,000 in seed funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, marks a pivotal chapter in the museum’s evolution, promising to revitalise its offerings and engagement with global audiences.
Founded in 1972 and nestled inside the historic Dinorwig Quarry, specifically, the Grade I-listed Victorian workshops there, the museum has long been a custodian of the region’s rich slate quarrying heritage. The site is already notable for its quarrymen’s cottages, working locomotives, the biggest functioning waterwheel in the UK, and the Vivian incline, which collectively paint a vivid picture of industrial life in North and Mid Wales.
The proposed redevelopment plans to introduce a new interpretation hub at the museum, including spaces dedicated to supporting traditional skills, learning, and well-being. This initiative is about preserving history and actively extending its relevance to contemporary audiences and future generations.
The slate landscapes of northwest Wales, where the museum is located, were recognised for their part in roofing the 19th-century world, being rewarded the status of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2021. This global acknowledgement underscores the profound historical importance of the slate industry and enriches the museum’s narrative and appeal as a destination that has contributed to global architecture and infrastructure.
The initial seed funding provided by The National Lottery Heritage Fund is part of a larger financial strategy that includes a full grant bid of £9,400,000 planned for a later date. This phased funding approach allows meticulous planning and execution of the museum’s expansion and enhancement projects.
CEO of Amgueddfa Cymru, Jane Richardson, expressed that this funding marks a milestone in the museum’s history, enabling it to connect with communities across Wales and globally, stating that by developing these new spaces, they shall be able to usher in new exhibitions and collections in North Wales for the first time. This development is anticipated to create new avenues for people of diverse backgrounds to engage with and learn from the rich slate heritage of the region.
Beyond its cultural significance, the redevelopment project is expected to have a substantial socio-economic impact on the region. The project aims to increase employment, attract more visitors, and enhance community well-being by revitalising the museum and expanding its facilities. It also promises to reconnect communities and individuals with the exceptional collections and narratives held by the museum.
The Welsh Government, recognising the slate industry’s deep-rooted significance to local communities and landscapes, is also contributing funding to this project. Lesley Griffiths, cabinet secretary for culture and social justice, emphasised the importance of the slate industry and expressed enthusiasm for the progress of redevelopment.
The comprehensive redevelopment of Amgueddfa Lechi Cymru is poised to redefine how industrial heritage is preserved and presented. With strong backing from both government and private sectors, the project aspires to blend historical education with interactive and community-focused experiences, ensuring the slate museum continues to be a beacon of cultural pride and historical learning in Wales. This ambitious transformation celebrates the past and paves the way for a dynamic future, making the museum a must-visit destination for local and international tourists.
