A high-profile fundraising drive for a Aberdeen military museum could be given a boost by city council funds after unanimous agreement yesterday.
Hazlehead, Queens Cross and Ashley councillor John Cooke raised a motion at yesterday’s meeting of the full council asking officers to see what financial support could be offered to the struggling Gordon Highlanders Museum on Viewfield Road.
The SNP member got unanimous support across the chamber and the motion was passed with applause.
The museum, on Aberdeen’s Viewfield Road, has launched a £300,000 fundraising drive to keep the city’s only five-star attractions open.
Despite growing visitor numbers, the oil and gas downturn has led to a drastic cut in the number of corporate events, with bookings for conferences, training days and dinners falling by nearly 60% in the past three years.
Aberdeen Journals Ltd has already supported the appeal with a £10,000 donation.
Yesterday, Mr Cooke, whose grandfather served with the Gordons in World War I, said his motion was “an investment” and that a threeyear plan had been launched by the museum to bring it back to profit.
He added: “I am delighted that there has been unanimous support for my motion, which seeks to support the Gordon Highlanders Museum in its hour of need.
“The council has previously identified tourism as a sector that’s important in diversifying our economy. In view of that, I’d regard any support we can give the museum as an investment, rather than a cost.
“Many local people and business have already contributed generously to the museum’s appeal, including a £10,000 donation from Aberdeen Journals, but it’s time for the council to step up to the plate.”
Fellow ward councillor Martin Greig said: “The Gordon Highlanders are an important part of our local history. Their presence deserves to be celebrated and commemorated.
“The museum adds to the cultural strengths of our area. They run educational programmes which are enrich our communities.
“The council is a key partner of the museum, so it is worthwhile finding out what can be done to support this key part of our heritage.”
