Decision details

To consider the report of Cabinet Member Economic Development and Leisure seeking approval for an update to the current policy which expires in 2013.

(i)  To approve the Arts and Heritage Collection Development Policy 2014-17, as set out in the appendix to the report, as the acquisition and disposals policy for the collections held by Southampton City Council.

(ii)  To approve delegated authority be given to the Arts and Heritage Manager to revise the policy if required, following consultation with the Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Leisure. 

1. A Council approved acquisition and disposals policy is an essential requirement of the Arts Council Accreditation Scheme for museums. A separate but similar Accreditation scheme governing archives is administered by the National Archives. Without Accreditation, eligibility for funding for Southampton from the Arts Council, Heritage Lottery Fund and other lottery, trust and foundation grant giving sources would be significantly restricted.
2. The Arts & Heritage Collection Development Policy will guide the work of the Arts and Heritage team over the next three years as it rationalises current holdings, adds new material to its collections that reflect the needs of a modern city, and provides enhanced public access to this important learning resource.

To retain the existing Southampton City Council Arts and Heritage Collections Policy this is due for review in 2013. This option is rejected because the current policy expires in 2013 and up to date and a forward looking policy is needed to secure Accreditation status and to reflect the existing Arts and Heritage public venues.  In order to Progress a collection review and storage relocation programme, a robust Collection Development Policy is required is required if national guidelines are to be adhered to.

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