Surrey Museum Receives Funding for Repairs

Introduction to the Project

The Waverley Borough Council has approved plans to repair the Farnham Museum, located in Wilmer House on West Street, with a budget of almost £2 million. The building, which is a Grade I listed structure, is in need of repairs to two chimney stacks and a parapet.

The Need for Repairs

Initially, the planned repairs were expected to cost £734,000, with the majority of the funding coming from a grant. However, further inspections by the Arts Council revealed more extensive problems, including deteriorated masonry and collapsing window arches, which increased the costs to £1.72 million.

Reaction from Council Members

The chairman of the committee, Peter Clark, expressed relief that the work is beginning, stating, "It could have ended badly, but luckily the work is starting and that’s good news." Council member Carole Cockburn, who represents Farnham Bourne, added, "We always wanted to save this building and I’m happy that it’s going to be saved."

The Significance of the Building

The Farnham Museum, which was opened in 1961, is home to over 65,000 objects and is considered a valuable part of the town’s heritage. Councilor Daniel Husseini, who represents Godalming, Binscombe, and Charterhouse, described the property as the "Rolls Royce of buildings" in Farnham.

The Approval Process

The approved planning application for listed building consent meant that the committee could only consider whether the work would likely affect the building’s architectural character or historical interest. The committee’s approval marks a significant step forward in the project, ensuring the preservation of this important historical building.