Julian has today welcomed the Culture Secretary’s announcement that the National Railway Museum in York is to receive £18.5m in Government funding for the construction of a new Central Hall and exhibition space. The Secretary of State, Nicky Morgan said that the money wound ‘kickstart the transformation’ of the museum and ensure that it continues to be ‘a huge draw for visitors and a wonderful celebration of our country’s proud railway heritage.’
The project is part of the long-anticipated redevelopment of the York Central site and cannot go ahead without £77.1m in Government funding to build a new access road. Julian has therefore requested an urgent meeting with Housing Minister Esther McVey to discuss the progress of the council’s Housing Infrastructure Fund bid.
Commenting on the bid, Julian said:
‘I know that everyone involved in the redevelopment of the York Central site, from City of York Council to the National Railway Museum are frustrated that essential progress towards delivering the project is being held back by continued uncertainty over Government funding.
I hope that the Housing Minister will agree to meet with me so that I can explain to her just how important this site is for the future of the city and ask her to investigate the delay to the funding announcement.’
