A PROJECT to make Arundells in Salisbury "fit for the future" has received a boost thanks to National Lottery funding.

The trustees of the Sir Edward Heath Charitable Foundation are celebrating after receiving the grant of £99,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for the Arundells – Fit for the Future project.

The project at the former home of Prime Minster Sir Edward Heath aims to bring to life the home's history through community activities and making the collection more accessible.

At the heart of the project is the creation of a new community garden to provide a "quiet and reflective" space to learn more about gardening, wildlife and habitat.

Arundells houses a diverse collection includes his paintings, ceramics, photographs, cartoons, sailing and musical memorabilia.

The project aims to introduce a wider range of people to Arundells’ heritage by trialling new activities and events. From teaching and enrichment activities for a range of local schools and across differing age groups to musical workshops, activities for the less able, and those with additional needs.

Ivan Smith, the manager of Arundells, said: “This is a tremendously exciting opportunity to reflect upon what we do well, to identify new opportunities, to proactively develop long lasting partnerships with a range of local groups, implement change and to develop wide ranging new activities with schools and local community groups.

"It is fabulous that the Heritage Fund recognises that Arundells has so much to offer, and we sincerely thank them for supporting our endeavours. Upon completion of the project, Arundells will be well and truly ‘Fit for the Future’.”

 

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