Future secure for two more Trust properties

Two National Trust for Scotland properties that could have been closed to the public have been reprieved, thanks to the generous support of external funders.

The David Livingstone Centre in Blantyre and Inveresk Lodge Garden in Musselburgh were facing closure if further funding could not be sourced to support the properties.

South Lanarkshire Council have stepped in to significantly increase the support that they provide to the David Livingstone Centre. That, combined with contributions from the David Livingstone Trustees and from a generous donor, means that the Trust will continue to manage the centre, in partnership with the council and the DL Trustees. The staff will continue in employment.

At Inveresk Lodge Garden, East Lothian Council have also confirmed annual support for the garden, which with cost savings and local support from the Inveresk Village Society, will allow the garden to remain open. There will be no staff redundancies.

National Trust for Scotland Chief Executive Kate Mavor said:

“We are very pleased that all of these properties will remain open and that visitors will be able to enjoy them for years to come. The Trust is hugely grateful to the local authorities, communities and individuals who have pledged their support to the charity and these properties. We hope that people will continue to show their support for our organisation and our work to protect and preserve Scotland’s treasures by visiting our properties, becoming members and volunteers and supporting our appeals. We need your support to succeed.”

South Lanarkshire Council Leader Eddie McAvoy said:

“It is great news for the area and for Scotland that the David Livingstone Centre will remain open. The council is pleased that the package we have offered will contribute to securing the future of this iconic centre celebrating the life of the world famous Victorian doctor and missionary.”

East Lothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, Cllr. Stuart Currie, said:

“Inveresk Garden is a popular attraction for local residents and visitors. We had a very constructive meeting with National Trust for Scotland and have put funding in place for an immediate solution. We will continue to work together to secure the future of the garden over the longer term.”

A decision on the future of Barry Mill, near Carnoustie is expected in the next few weeks.