Councils team up to run Lowewood Museum

Published on 9 February 2012

As from 1 February 2012, Broxbourne Council will enter into a five-year partnership arrangement with Epping Forest District Council for the operation of Lowewood Museum, Hoddesdon.

Following the retirement of the Museum’s two long standing staff members, Broxbourne Council was able to explore the cost-effective opportunity of a service level agreement.

Under the new arrangement, Broxbourne Council will continue to own and maintain the listed building whilst we will deploy staff from our museum in Waltham Abbey to manage the facility. The existing identity, opening hours and current programme of temporary exhibitions will be maintained.

With years of experience operating Epping Forest District Museum in Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, Broxbourne Council expects a seamless transfer period and hopes the partnership will promote future service development.

The integrated service aims to draw on the collections of both museums and provide an opportunity for wider ranging exhibitions to increase interest and footfall.

Councillor Ricki Gadsby, Leisure and Wellbeing Portfolio Holder for Epping Forest District Council said: “This is a great deal for both councils and residents. Broxbourne and Epping Forest have independently built high reputations for their respective museums. We hold common values, working at the heart of our communities. The staff at Epping Forest share a deep respect for the work done by their colleagues in Broxbourne and are committed to continuing the cultural legacy of Lowewood. The two service collections will compliment each other as will the new working arrangements between our two councils.”

Portfolio Holder for the Community for Broxbourne Council, Councillor Paul Seeby, says: “With this partnership in place, it will enable the Lowewood museum service to be developed further, building upon the excellent work that has already been achieved. We look forward to a long and prosperous working relationship with Epping Forest District Council.”

For further information of the new arrangement or services that Lowewood Museum provides, residents are asked to call 01992 445596 or visit the leisure and culture pages on Broxbourne Council website.