The future of a popular Moray tourism attraction is hanging the balance after failing to attract any potential new owners.
Moray Council previously announced plans to either close the Falconer Museum in Forres or transfer the service to an external trust by April 2020.
It is the only council-run collection in the region, but the exhibitions and items on show could be sold off unless an organisation steps up to take it on through a community asset transfer.
However, despite an appeal there has been no registered interest – with the Friends of the Falconer Museum unable due to a lack of manpower and funds.
That means the five-star tourist attraction is at risk of being mothballed.
Anne Owen, who is a development project officer at the museum, hopes a solution can be found as soon as possible to allow the site to stay open and continue to attract people to Forres.
She said: “We are hoping a trust will be found to take us on after April 2020 when council funding ceases but the Friends of Falconer Museum will not as they don’t have the manpower or the people to undertake such a feat.
“Next year is very uncertain for us and what is needed is a trust with finance and expertise to lead the way and Moray Council is still looking for someone to a trust to take it over.
“It is frustrating as no-one knows how to drum up support for the museum as we are not under immediate threat.”
Forres councillor George Alexander would like it to be kept open but admitted the council’s own financial situation meant that it was up to the community to save.
He said: “I’d certainly like it to be kept open and hopefully a way is found that will see that happen.
“With the current financial situation of the council, it is unlikely we can pay staff to keep it open as we are responsible for the building and the artefacts but not for opening the doors.”
