Fashion Museum Bath funding, Culverhay memories and Somer Valley walks This week started with the fantastic news that we secured more than £7 million in National Lottery Heritage Fund support for Fashion Museum Bath. Such major investment will help progress our plans to create a home for one of the world's leading fashion collections, creating a new visitor attraction that will celebrate Bath's unique heritage. It's a huge vote of confidence in our cultural future and it represents far more than capital investment. It will breathe new life into a landmark building, create opportunities for local people, support young people's skills and creativity, improve accessibility, strengthen Bath's visitor economy and enhance the improvements we want to make as part of the Milsom Quarter public realm. At a time when many places are scaling back ambition we are investing in our future - combining heritage, culture, economic growth and public realm improvements to create a more vibrant, inclusive and prosperous city. Today scores of former pupils, staff and residents took up our offer to tour the former Culverhay School before buildings are demolished to make way for a new school. The memories, stories and enthusiasm people have shared show just how important the site has been to generations of local families. While it is right to celebrate that history, it's also exciting to look ahead. The site will play a vital role in supporting the next generation through the future development of a new special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) school, helping more children and young people access the specialist education and support they need closer to home. Finally, if you're looking for a great way to enjoy our beautiful local countryside, don't forget that bookings are now open for the Somer Valley Walking Festival. The festival offers walks for all ages and abilities, showcasing some of the area's most stunning landscapes, wildlife and heritage. Many events fill up quickly, so I'd encourage you to take a look at the programme and book your place soon. It's a wonderful opportunity to stay active, meet new people and discover more of what makes Bath and North East Somerset such a special place to live. Have a great weekend. Councillor Kevin Guy,
Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council | 
