A major step toward securing the long-term future of Blackwood Miners’ Institute (BMI) is set to be taken this week.
On Wednesday 10 December, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet, meeting in its capacity as Trustee, will consider a detailed progress report outlining the positive work undertaken over recent months to support the venue’s sustainability and development.
The report sets out a range of options for BMI’s future operation and recommends that Cabinet endorses a proposal to undertake a market-testing exercise to assess interest from experienced external cultural organisations in managing the day-to-day running of the venue.
This would allow the council to retain ownership of the iconic building, while securing a delivery partner to increase the sustainability of the current operating model, and reduce the subsidy the local authority needs to contribute.
Leader of Council, Cllr Jamie Pritchard, commented:
“The work undertaken over recent months shows clear progress and reflects our commitment to the future of the BMI. It is clear there is a great sense of love for the BMI in the community, and we believe the proposed actions could deliver an enhanced offer to the community.
“An experienced external cultural organisation, managing the day-to-day running of the venue, with the Council retaining ownership of the iconic building, should bring positive long – term benefits for the venue and visitors. Cabinet as Trustees of BMI, will consider a number of proposals on how best we can deliver this resource in a more sustainable way. The future looks bright for the BMI”.
