Scottish Crannog Centre bailed out with £50k by Perth and Kinross Council

Perth and Kinross Council Steps in to Support Scottish Crannog Centre with £50k Bailout

The Scottish Crannog Centre, situated on the shores of Loch Tay, has received a financial lifeline from Perth and Kinross Council in the form of up to £50,000. The council’s Finance and Resources Committee swiftly approved the emergency funding request to help the heritage centre navigate potential “cashflow challenges” that are out of its control. The centre faced difficulties following a devastating fire three years ago that destroyed its Iron Age house, prompting the need for a new £12 million centre at Dalerb, across the water. Despite ongoing construction work, the museum opened to the public in its new location on April 1.

Mike Benson, the director of the Scottish Crannog Centre, expressed gratitude for the public’s unwavering support since the fire and highlighted the significance of the council’s financial backing. He mentioned that while the £50,000 support brings comfort and security, the centre’s aim is to not require the funds unless necessary. Facing a projected overspend on its 2024/25 budget, Perth and Kinross Council allocated £50,000 from its reserves to ensure the Scottish Crannog Centre has a level of confidence moving forward.

Council leader Grant Laing emphasised the collaborative approach taken, with officers working closely with the Centre’s board to understand the challenges they face. The Chief Executive of PKC, Thomas Glen, clarified that a larger sum had been requested originally, reflecting the ongoing cashflow issues due to discussions with external parties. The council’s Chief Financial Officer, Scott Walker, explained that the underwriting would act as a short-term grant rather than a loan, providing essential support to the Centre.

There were mixed reactions from councillors, with some expressing concerns over the last-minute nature of the funding request. Liberal Democrat councillor Peter Barrett, who has a personal connection to the Centre, raised issues about the ad-hoc manner of addressing financial challenges and suggested better communication could have led to a more considered decision-making process. However, Provost Xander McDade, representing the ward where the Scottish Crannog Centre is located, stressed the Centre’s importance as a national heritage site and highlighted its wider community impact beyond tourism.

In summary, Perth and Kinross Council’s intervention to bail out the Scottish Crannog Centre underscores the significance of preserving our cultural heritage and supporting vital community assets. The collaborative effort between the council and the Centre reflects a commitment to overcoming challenges and ensuring the sustainability of such treasured institutions for future generations to enjoy.