National Museum Cardiff may close temporarily for renovation
National Museum Cardiff may temporarily close for redevelopment, according to Amgueddfa Cymru (Museum Wales), which runs the site. The Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) confirmed the possibility, citing discussions on staff impact, collection protection, and future operations. Amgueddfa Cymru stated any closure decision will undergo full review and consultation, noting the museum approaches its centenary next year and requires improvement works. A design team (AHR and C.F. Møller Architects) has been appointed for enabling maintenance works. In 2024, chief executive Jane Richardson warned closure could occur without funding for repairs. Then culture secretary Lesley Griffiths denied closure and promised specific funding. In February 2025, the museum closed for days due to building maintenance and health concerns. For 2024–25, the Welsh Government allocated £30.5m grant-in-aid to Amgueddfa Cymru, supplemented by £940,000 in September 2024 and £3m for urgent works in May 2025. Plaid Cymru, which won the most seats in the May 2025 Senedd elections, pledged increased investment in art and culture.
Key facts
- National Museum Cardiff may temporarily close for redevelopment.
- Amgueddfa Cymru runs the museum and is considering temporary closure.
- PCS union is discussing staff impact and collection protection.
- Design team AHR and C.F. Møller Architects appointed for enabling works.
- In 2024, CEO Jane Richardson warned closure without funding.
- Then culture secretary Lesley Griffiths denied closure in 2024.
- Museum closed for days in February 2025 due to maintenance issues.
- Welsh Government allocated £30.5m grant-in-aid for 2024–25, plus additional funds.
Entities
Institutions
- National Museum Cardiff
- Amgueddfa Cymru
- Museum Wales
- Public and Commercial Services union
- PCS
- BBC
- AHR
- C.F. Møller Architects
- Welsh Government
- Senedd
- Audit Wales
- National Library of Wales
- Plaid Cymru
Locations
- Cardiff
- Wales
- Aberystwyth
- United Kingdom