Save Our Glass Heritage

Congratulations to the Stourbridge Portland Vase 2012 Team!

2011-09-22T11:57:00.003+01:00

It is great news for Stourbridge glass that cameo engravers, Terri Colege & Richard Golding together with other glass artists will be re-creating the famous Portland Vase for the 400 year Stourbridge glass anniversary, at the Ruskin Centre, Amblecote. This is great news and congratulations to all the talented team!

Glass Treasures have raised £7100 for British Glass Foundation

2011-04-13T17:55:00.003+01:00

The BGF would like to thank Fieldings Auctioneers, glass artists and collectors that helped raise £7100 to secure the future of the glass collections currently held at Broadfield House Glass Museum Kingswinford England.

British Glass Foundation Raising Funds

2011-04-08T13:23:00.003+01:00

5 Centuries of Glass Auction is taking place 9th April 2011 at Fieldings Auctioneers, Mill Race Lane, Stourbridge. Will Farmer - Director of Fieldings and a glass and ceramics specialist on the BBC Antiques Roadshow has forfeited his sellers premium to help the charity raise funds. All the Trustees of the BGF are extremely grateful. Picture includes Will Farmer and Janet Hendry holding the donated pieces for the auction.

Glass Artists donate work to help raise funds for the British Glass Foundation Charity

2011-04-01T19:28:00.004+01:00

Allister Malcolm, Jo Newman, Charlotte Hughes Martin, Terri Colledge, Janet Hendry, Sue Parry, Malcolm Andrews and Vic Bamforth are among many glass artists that have donated their work to help raise funds to save and promote the Broadfield House Glass Collections & Archives.

Loyal Employee Janette Tranter retires from Glass Museum

2011-04-01T19:21:00.004+01:00

Janette Tranter has served Broadfield House Glass Museum for 10 years and retired on the 31st March. Allister Malcolm presented her with a lovely vase made in the hot glass studio at Broadfield House Glass Museum.

Glass Association Seminar

2011-04-01T19:09:00.004+01:00

Mark Hill from the BBC's Antiques Roadshow and Dr Graham Cooley arrived at Broadfield House Glass Museum to celebrate 50 years of Caithness Glass. Mark Launched his book at the museum and Brian Clarke Chairman of the Glass Association presented Graham Knowles Chairman of the British Glass Foundation a cheque. Our thanks to the Glass Association for all their support.

British Glass Foundation Launch

2011-04-01T19:04:00.003+01:00

BBC features the British Glass Foundation

2010-12-08T20:37:00.004Z

Please support British Glass & Heritage by supporting the British Glass Foundation

2010-12-04T11:07:00.003Z

Please support us by sending a donation to British Glass Foundation, C/O Graham Knowles, Hulbert Group, Peartree Lodge, Hulbert Drive, Peartree Lane, Dudley, DY2 0XW England.

Any glass artist wishing to donate a piece of their work to help raise funds for the foundation, please email janet.hendry@blueyonder.co.uk

BBC Midlands Today Visits Broadfield House Glass Musuem

2010-12-03T20:02:00.005Z

The BBC Midlands Today Arts Correspondent visited Broadfield House Glass Museum. Lyndsay Doyle was very interested in reporting the importance of the glass collections, archives and the unique glass pavillion designed by Architect Brent Richards. Andy McConnell, glass specialist on the Antiques Roadshow also gave an interview to Lyndsay on the national glass treasures at Broadfield.

British Glass Foundation Charity Launch

2010-11-25T16:08:00.003Z

The British Glass Foundation launch on the 24th November 2010. 75 guests packed into the Saloon state room at Hagley Hall for the speeches by the trustees and Vice Chair of the foundation. The trustees are Graham Knowles, Charles Hajdamach, David Williams-Thomas and Stephen Pollock-Hill. Brent Richards is Vice Chair.

The British Glass Foundation Set to Promote Stourbridge Glass

2010-11-14T17:56:00.001Z

Stourbridge News Article

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/8629042.New_group_to_promote_Stourbridge__national_treasure_/

The British Glass Foundation Launch Article

2010-11-04T07:01:00.002Z

British Glass Foundation Mission Statement

2010-10-23T21:09:00.001+01:00

“The British Glass Foundation will create the national lead to promote, educate and inspire visitors to the rich 400 year history of Stourbridge Glass. We aim to secure the future of the collections and archives, and work with Dudley and Staffordshire Council to find a suitable and worthy home for the legacy that is British Glass. “

Preparations for the British Glass Foundation Launch

2010-10-23T20:59:00.002+01:00

Preparations have started for the launch of the British Glass Foundation. We are grateful to Lord Cobham in allowing us to hold our launch at the wonderful historic Hagley Hall, Hagley. Invites will be sent out and everyone is getting ready to stand together for the rich glass heritage of Stourbridge.

British Glass Foundation being backed by Antiques Roadshow Expert Eric Knowles

2010-07-27T14:21:00.003+01:00

Glass campaigners set up new Foundation
9:00am Thursday 1st April 2010

CAMPAIGNERS trying to protect Broadfield House from possible council closure plans have enlisted help from a host of Black Country benefactors.
Members of the glass community formed a new group called the British Glass Foundation, at a meeting at London’s V&A in February, which aims to preserve and enhance the glass collection and archives based at the world famous Kingswinford museum.
Antiques Roadshow stalwart Eric Knowles has already thrown his weight behind the new national group - and now Blackcountry businessmen Geoff Hill and Graham Knowles have pledged their support.
David William Thomas, whose family firms Stevens & Williams and Royal Brierley Crystal made glass in the area for more than 200 years, has also given his backing to the new venture, as has Steven Pollock Hill, president of British Glass 2010.
Janet Hendry, spokesman for the new group, said: “The setting up of the British Glass Foundation is the most exciting development that has happened since the campaign to save our glass heritage began over 12 months ago.”
Meanwhile a feasibility study is continuing to examine whether Dudley Council’s idea to move the Broadfield collection to Wordsley’s Red House Glass Cone could create an improved visitor attraction.

Famous Glass & Sculpture Artists Back British Glass Foundation

2010-07-23T16:33:00.004+01:00

London based Danny Lane & Steven Newell back the newly formed

British Glass Foundation.

Possible New Glass Museum Site

2010-07-08T21:36:00.001+01:00

Express & Star Article

http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2010/07/03/new-site-lined-up-for-dudley-glass-museum/

Taking Positive Steps

2010-06-20T16:00:00.004+01:00

The forming of the British Glass Foundation has indeed been a giant leap forward. A national group has been set up to preserve and enhance the glass collections currently held at Broadfield House Glass Museum and Himley Hall. There have been many individuals since January 2009, who have come forward to help to keep the glass legacy alive in Stourbridge and Kingswinford. A big heartfelt thank you goes out to you all!

Campaign to save Broadfield House Glass Museum Collections makes Front Page News

2010-04-17T21:39:00.004+01:00

Campaigners made front page news in Stourbridge News.

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/8101535.Campaigners_take_frustrations_to_the_polls/

Axe-threat Museum Landmark Weekend

2010-04-02T21:15:00.002+01:00

The British Glass Foundation 30th March 2010

2010-03-30T21:47:00.002+01:00

"The setting up of The British Glass Foundation is a historic moment, recognising the 400 year old glass heritage of Stourbridge Glass. It is important to keep the glassmaking legacy alive in our area by promoting and encouraging glass artists. This is the most exciting development that has happened, since the campaign to save our glass heritage began over 12 months ago".

We would like to dedicate this day to all the glassmakers over the centuries that have contributed to make the name of Stourbridge Glass world renowned.

Nick Clegg MP Backs Save Our Glass Heritage Campaign

2010-03-21T21:17:00.002Z

Liberal Democrat Leader visited Stourbridge today and backed the campaign to preserve and enhance the glass collections held at Broadfield House Glass Museum. He encouraged campaigners and understood the International importance of the collections.

Janet Hendry Speaks to Nick Clegg about Broadfield House Glass Museum

2010-03-15T22:33:00.004Z

I spoke to Lib-Dem Leader Nick Clegg about Broadfield House Glass Museum, when I met him at the Conference in Birmingham. He showed a keen interest and will be coming to Stourbridge soon.

Local Lib-dems Supporting Our Glass Heritage

2010-03-15T22:14:00.006Z

Cllr Dave Tyler, Cllr Lynn Boleyn, Janet Hendry & Lib Dem MP Candidate Jon Bramall supporting our glass heritage.

30th Anniversary Concert for Broadfield House Glass Museum

2010-03-09T13:55:00.004Z

The 30th Anniversary Concert for Broadfield House Glass Museum was a success. The Singing for Pleasure Choir started the night, then Amy Stew and David Gregory and then Alun Davies sang. The highlight of the evening was Colum Sands who flew in from Dublin to sing. It was an amazing evening.

Following meeting at V&A a National Group Has been setup to Preserve & Enhance the Collections Held at Broadfield House Glass Museum - Press Coverage

2010-03-03T11:36:00.008Z

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/5037993.Glass_campaigners_unite

Video Highlighting the Nationally Important Glass Collections & Archives Held at Broadfield House Glass Museum

2010-02-27T20:41:00.000Z

A video has been produced, highlighting the national importance of the glass collections and archives held at Broadfield House Glass Museum.
Featuring Graham Knowles, Charles Hajdamach and Janet Hendry.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOIn9UIW_qY

National Group Formed to Save the Glass Collections & Archives held at Broadfield House Glass Museum

2010-02-27T19:55:00.000Z

A meeting was held at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London on 25th February 2010. On this auspicious day, a national group was set up to preserve and enhance the glass collections and archives held at Broadfield House Glass Museum. Amongst those present were Brent Richards (architect of glass pavillion at Broadfield) Eric Knowles from the Antiques Roadshow and former Director of Bonhams. Chairman of Society of Scientific Glassblowers, Chairman of British Glass Education Trust & Chairman of Nazeing Glass, Chairman of Contemporary Glass Society and the Arts Council.

Pictured above are from left, Brent Richards, Janet Hendry and Eric Knowles.

Antiques Roadshow Experts Hit Out on Broadfield House Glass Museum Saga

2010-02-16T20:10:00.001Z

Andy McConnell and Eric Knowles from the Antiques Roadshow Speak Out in Support of Broadfield House Glass Museum.

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/5005353.roadshow_stars_hit_out_over_glass_museum_saga/

Euro MP Liz Lynne Backs Campaigner Janet Hendry

2010-02-09T13:45:00.000Z

Liz Lynne Euro MP welcomes Janet Hendry as the candidate for Kingswinford South and supports the campaign to save the glass collections and archives held at Broadfield House Glass Museum.
http://www.lizlynne.org.uk/news/001273/euro_mp_welcomes_choice_of_leading_glass_heritage_campaigner_for_council_battle.html

Protest Update On Broadfield House Glass Museum

2010-01-30T14:45:00.000Z

A successful protest was held at Broadfield House Glass Museum. It was well attended by the friends of Broadfield House Glass Museum, including the Chairman Barbara Beadman, local Lib Dem Councillor Lynn Boleyn, leader of Save Our Glass Heritage Campaigner Janet Hendry and local people. The protest was held after talks between the council and interested glass parties of the museum broke down and the future of the collections is once again uncertain.

Protest to be held at Broadfield House Glass Museum

2010-01-28T20:38:00.000Z

Protest to be held at Broadfield House Glass Museum 29.1.10. Dudley Council voted on 12th October 2009 to work towards creating a museum of national importance for the Dudley Borough. This resolution has not been upheld and as a result, negotiations have broken down. The glass collections are a national treasure and the conservative led council, has treated the museum, the collections and the people of the borough with disdain and contempt. In Birmingham we have a council supporting culture and in Dudley there is a cultural disaster about to happen.

Janet Hendry has been chosen as the Lib Dem Candidate for Kingswinford South

2010-01-24T17:31:00.001Z

Janet Hendry has been chosen as the Lib Dem candidate for the Kingswinford South Ward. Broadfield House Glass Museum is in this ward and Janet has vowed to highlight the importance of the glass collections and archives held at Broadfield House Glass Museum. Janet will work hard to create a museum of national importance for the Dudley Borough.

Top Architect Brent Richards Supports Campaign

2010-01-11T15:57:00.000Z

Award winning top Architect Brent Richards has pledged his support for the Broadfield House Glass Musuem 2010 campaign.

Brent designed the amazing glass pavillion situated at Broadfield House Glass Museum.

Campaigners Mark Anniversary of Broadfield House Glass Museum Closure Notice

2010-01-05T12:27:00.000Z

Campaigners Councillor Lynn Boleyn and Janet Hendry outside Glass Museum marking the day Council Officers said Broadfield House Glass Museum would close March 2010.

One year on we feel the resolution has been ignored and talks with Dudley Council and interested parties of the Museum have stalled.

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/local/4841069.Campaigners_to_continue_fight/

Happy Christmas from Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-12-21T21:13:00.000Z

Christmas has come early to The Award Winning Broadfield House Glass Museum. We are pleased to announce that the Glass Museum has achieved accreditation status from the MLA.

We would like to wish everyone A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Articles in local papers about Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-12-21T20:56:00.000Z

Press coverage following the breakdown of talks with Dmbc

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/4787979.Glass_row_heats_up_after_Cabinet_vote/

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/4785001.Fears_for_consultation_on_glass_heritage_future/

Fresh Fears For Glass Collections & Archives

2009-12-08T22:20:00.000Z

Dmbc have purchased the shop at the Redhouse Cone site.

The same problems apply and it seems the same questions, Is the Redhouse Cone site safe? Where is the parking? Will the glass be safe from pollution and vibrations from the busy main road? Are the cabinet implementing the resolution? Is the resolution working in practical terms?

Why was the brief so narrow for the feasability study? We should have had a thorough feasability study which included extending and expanding existing site for glass collections and archives.

The world is still watching with keen interest to see how Dmbc are handling the issue!

Lynda Waltho MP Visiting Scottish Exhibtion at Glass Museum

2009-12-04T20:55:00.001Z

Lynda Waltho MP Visited Broadfield House Glass Museum today to see the new Scottish exhibition and was interested to hear how the negotiations are progressing with Dudley Council.

The Next Step for Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-11-27T15:46:00.000Z

Today MP Ian Pearson and Cllr Pete Lowe visited the museum to see the new Scottish Glass Exhibition Migrate. Broadfield House is the only venue in the UK showing the exhibition.

Ian Pearson, Cllr Lowe and myself discussed the importance of creating an International museum of glass here in the Dudley area.

I explained to them the need for us to access any monies, such as lottery fund, european funding and Olympic culture money to help create a World Class Facility for the Dudley Borough.

Discussing The Importance of an International Museum of Glass

2009-11-27T15:33:00.000Z

Ian Pearson MP came to Broadfield House today to see the new Scottish Glass Exhibition called Migrate. I thanked him for his support and help during our campaign.

Scottish Exhibition Arrives At Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-11-14T17:53:00.002Z

An Exhibition celebrating 30 years of Scottish Glass arrived at Broadfield House Glass Museum today. The Exhibition is called MIGRATE.

Glass artists Jessamy Kelly, Siobhan Healy and Rachel Elliott visited Broadfield for the launch of the exhibition.

On Course For A National Museum of Glass for Stourbridge

2009-11-09T19:12:00.000Z

The passion and belief for a national museum to celebrate the Stourbridge Glass Industry remains and negotiations have started with Dudley Council.

The Glass Collections and Archives here at Broadfield House Glass Museum are the best in the world and now all possibilities and every effort will be explored to create the dream of one day having an International museum of glass in the centre of England - which of course is Stourbridge.

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/west-midlands-news/2009/10/13/stourbridge-glass-campaigners-win-backing-for-national-museum-65233-24913741/

Article about Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-10-19T21:08:00.000+01:00

http://blog.glassquarterly.com/2009/10/14/historic-british-glass-museum-saved-from-closure-thanks-to-international-campaign/

Andy McConnell on BBC Radio WM - Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-10-14T22:02:00.000+01:00

BBC Midlands Today at Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-10-14T20:05:00.000+01:00

Celebrations At Broadfield House Glass Museum!

2009-10-13T14:55:00.001+01:00

Councillor Pete Lowe came to Broadfield House Glass Museum today with some champagne to celebrate the wonderful news that his resolution was won last night unanimously!

Councillor Lowe and I started the morning on a BBC Radio WM breakfast show, then I went on to do 2 more radio interviews and then it was back to Broadfield House Glass Museum for a photo shoot with a newspaper and be interviewed by a reporter.

Today was a victory for the glass museum and many thanks to Councillors Lowe & Tyler, for all their support during our campaign.

VICTORY FOR CAMPAIGN

2009-10-12T20:48:00.000+01:00

The Resolution put forward by Cllr Lowe was successful! Broadfield House Glass Museum will remain open to the public.

Save Our Glass Heritage will work towards creating a World Class Glass Museum.

Congratulations and Well Done to everyone that helped to secure the world famous glass collections and archives!

Broadfield House Glass Museum Resolution

2009-10-06T20:30:00.001+01:00

Councillor Lowe and Councillor Tyler will be putting a resolution forward on 12th October 2009 at the Council House, Dudley.

The resolution could determine the future of all the glass collections and archives, currently held at Broadfield House Glass Museum, Kingswinford, West Midlands.

This is a historic day for the world renowned Glass Collections and archives held at the glass museum. We have campaigned for this moment and look forward with great anticipation to the outcome of the resolution.

Broadfield House Glass Museum Billboard

2009-10-04T11:56:00.001+01:00

News of the Internationally renowned Glass Museum was on Billboards everywhere!

Here is a picture of the Billboard outside a newsagents in Kingswinford, West Midlands.

http://www.expressandstar.com/2009/10/02/glass-exhibits-could-cost-5m-to-relocate/

Meeting Folk Singer Colum Sands

2009-10-04T11:45:00.000+01:00

I met Folk Singer Colum Sands at a gig in Birmingham last night with friends. Colum kindly allowed us to use his song "The Night is Young" as our Campaign Song.

He also asked me to send him our campaign t-shirt!

Broadfield House Glass Museum to stay open?

2009-10-02T12:06:00.000+01:00

Express and Star have revealed that Broadfield House Glass Museum will not close in April 2010
http://www.expressandstar.com/2009/10/02/glass-exhibits-could-cost-5m-to-relocate/

Dudley Council would have to spend £3-5m to save £120k

2009-10-01T21:02:00.000+01:00

Stage One of the Dudley Council Glass Feasibilty Study has revealed that it would cost £3-5m to redevelop the Red Cone site, to save just £120k by closing down Broadfield House Glass Museum

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/search/4656435.New_glass_museum_would_cost___3_5m/

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/west-midlands-news/2009/10/01/row-over-plans-to-move-collection-to-red-house-glass-cone-stourbridge-65233-24824086/

Glass Feasibilty Study Stage One Presentation

2009-10-01T20:30:00.000+01:00

Dudley Council have published the Stage One report which was Presented to Joint Stourbridge and Brierley Hill Area Committee Meeting

Glass Feasibility Study: Stage One Interim Presentation

Glass Feasibility Study Stage One Presentation

Broadfield House Glass Museum Feasibilty Survey Results Published

2009-10-01T20:20:00.000+01:00

Dudley Council have now published on their website the results of the survey conducted by L&R

Online Glass Survey Questionnaire Results

Analysis of the Stourbridge Glass Heritage Online Survey

The rest of the Glass Feasibilty Study documents are available here

https://www.dudley.gov.uk/index.asp?pgid=49335&fs=

Special Broadfield House Glass Museum Meeting Report

2009-10-01T08:50:00.000+01:00

Many people voiced their opinions at a meeting held specially for the Glass Museum on 29th September 2009. William Fludgate Chairman of the British Society of Scientific Glass Blowers, travelled 100 miles to voice his opinion. At a packed meeting locals raised their concerns for moving the world renowned glass collections, to the Red Cone Site, saying it was not suitable as there is already much traffic congestion there! L & R Consulting showed everyone a presentation and outlined costs of 3-5 million to move the collections and prepare the Red Cone Site.

Councillors were asked to lift the threat of closure from the Glass Museum and were asked 3 times to reasure the staff about their jobs, they refused.

Cllr Dave Tyler questioned whether the Council were the right people to look after the glass collections and suggested putting the collections into a trust - all the public applauded the suggestion!

I pointed out that when we talk about a World Class Glass Museum, this is what I mean - A hot glass studio to show the skill of glassmaking, space for the archives and lecture facilities and a state of the art exhibition space to suit all ages, that has disabled access. All this should be at a setting and facility for coaches to come far and wide to see our wonderful glass heritage.

Cllr Lowe will be putting a Resolution before the council on the 12th October, asking for cross party support and glass and community involvement to create a National Museum that we can all be proud of.

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/west-midlands-news/2009/10/01/row-over-plans-to-move-collection-to-red-house-glass-cone-stourbridge-65233-24824086/

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/4656435.New_glass_museum_would_cost___3_5m/

Dudley Council agrees with Antiques Roadshow Glass Specialist.

2009-09-26T17:28:00.000+01:00

The article appeared in the Birmingham Mail on 25th September 2009

Visit to Redhouse Cone

2009-09-26T11:49:00.000+01:00

I visited the Redhouse cone with 10 other people including Cllr Dave Tyler. Here is a picture of me standing outside the RedCone Site. I discovered many outbuildings with many stairs and interlinking small rooms with low ceilings and hardly any natural light. It took me 6 minutes to turn right out of the car park at redcone site. Then I sat in a traffic jam all the way into Kingswinford (time 3pm) Not exactly the World Class Venue that we would all hope for!

Cllr Pete Lowe Is Putting a Resolution Forward

2009-09-22T16:29:00.000+01:00

N E W S F L A S H

Cllr Pete Lowe will be putting a resolution forward to meet the aspirations of the Borough and Beyond to celebrate the rich glass heritage of the area.

Details will be outlined at the meeting on the glass musuem on 29th September 2009

at the Brier School
Bromley Lane
Kingswinford
DY6 8QN AT 7pm

Finally Councillors are listening to the people!

Antique Roadshow Glass Specialists Visit Broadfield House Glass Museum

2009-09-18T14:09:00.001+01:00

Antiques Roadshow Glass Specialists - Andy McConnell and Eric Knowles visited Broadfield House Glass Museum on 17th Septemeber and met with Council leader Anne Millward and other Dudley Councillors.

They presented their vision for a World Class Glass Museum and the need for dialogue between all interested parties to secure a future for the glass collections held at the award winning musuem.

Checkout the Stourbridge News Coverage;

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/local/your_community/st/4643920.The_world_is_watching__warns_Roadshow_star/

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/local/your_community/kl/kingswinford/4643824.TV_duo_call_for_world_class_glass_museum/

Lobby The Councillors

2009-09-13T11:39:00.000+01:00

Local Elections - The Borough is split into 24 wards. Each ward is represented by 3 Councillors. Local Elections are held in 3 out of 4 years. There is an election of one Councillor to each of the 24 wards on the first Thursday in May each election year. The next local elections are scheduled for 6th May 2010

http://councillors.dudley.gov.uk This link gives you access to dudley Cllrs details, email address, home address and telephone numbers.

These are the Cllrs that will be voting on the future of Broadfield.

Please write to them or phone them up if you care about this issue.

Please note emails tend to get "LOST" in the system.

This is a conservative run Council with a majority of just 14 (Con 43, Lab 26, Lib 2, UKIP 1) So lobbying them could make all the difference!

NEWSFLASH

2009-09-11T14:24:00.001+01:00

The next meeting to discuss Broadfield House with Dudley Cllrs will be on 29th September at 7pm

The Brier School
Bromley Lane
Kingswinford
DY6 8QN

2009-09-11T14:13:00.000+01:00

Select Committee on Regeneration, Culture & Adult Education

Monday 7 September 2009

Response to Questions

Question 1: Can you confirm the Council has put a bid in for the site at the Red Cone and when will you know if you have been successful?

Answer: The Council will be submitting a bid to acquire the freehold of the entire Red House site by the closing date of 9 September. At this time the Agents have not indicated a decision date.

Question 2: When does the Council intend to do a Structural Survey on the Cone building to ensure its safety and when will they make the results of survey public?

Answer: The Council is making arrangements to survey and monitor the structure of the Cone. The survey is likely to start later this year and monitoring is planned to continue for several months. A detailed survey of the condition of all the buildings on the site will be commissioned as part of the development proposals.

Question 3: What Steps will the Council take to ensure there is adequate Car Parking for the Red Cone site and when will the local residents be consulted on this issue?

Answer: Consideration of the parking requirements at the Red House site is included in the feasibility study, which will be examined in more detail as the study progresses.

Question 4: Why has the main Benefactor of the Museum, not been consulted by DMBC or L & R Consultants during the first phase of this feasibility study?

Answer: The consultation with stakeholders, professional organisations and individuals is an ongoing process as part of the study.

Question 5: What is going to happen to the loan collections currently held at Broadfield House Glass Museum?

An objective of the Feasibility Study is to develop recommendations for more extensive and improved display space and interpretation. It is hoped that the owners of the loan collections would wish to see their glass exhibited in such a new facility.

Presentation to the Select Committee on Regeneration, Culture & Adult Education

2009-09-08T13:42:00.000+01:00

Glass Feasibility Study: Stage One Interim Presentation

2009-09-06T12:04:00.001+01:00

Here are 2 pictures taken outside the Council House in Dudley and Broadfield House Glass Museum.

Ian Pearson MP for Dudley sent his best wishes, as we enter a crucial phase in the campaign.

2009-08-24T19:41:00.000+01:00

A letter has been sent to all the 76 Councillors at Dudley from Save Our Glass Heritage. The campaigners have asked Cllr Anne Millward to come forward and champion the cause for a World Class Glass Museum - here in the Stourbridge/Kingswinford area.

We continue to believe the Red Cone site is not suitable or safe to house the glass collections and archives, and hot glass studio, but would welcome an alternative site for the World Class Glass Museum.

We hope that Dudley Council will listen to local opinion and promote the area's glass heritage to its full potential.

2009-08-10T20:21:00.000+01:00

Important Update: L & R Consultants have produced a form for the public to fill in, as part of the feasability study. Have your say and click on the link below:

http://online.dudley.gov.uk/about/surveys/glass_collection_feasibility_study.htm

2009-08-10T20:07:00.001+01:00

Save Our Glass Heritage is campaigning for a World Class Glass Museum.

A World Class Glass Collection deserves a World Class Glass Museum.

Please read article in today's Express and Star 10.8.09

2009-08-08T11:22:00.000+01:00

A Vision for a World Class Glass Museum has been offered by the campaigners!

There has been much press including newspaper and radio interviews lately about the people voicing their opinions about the glass collections, archives and glass studio occupied by leading glass artist Allister Malcolm.

Campaigners believe a world class collection deserves to be shown in a World Class Glass Museum.

Antiques Roadshow experts Andy McConnell and Will Farmer from Fieldings Auctioneers in Stourbridge joined Dr Graham Cooley at Broadfield House Glass Museum to share their vision of a World Class Glass Museum.

2009-07-31T22:27:00.000+01:00

There was a packed meeting at Wordsley Green Community Centre. This is the first chance the public have had in 6 months to air their views. Passions were running high at the meeting and it was suggested repeatedly to the council and officers, why close Broadfield House Glass Museum when everyone knows the Red Cone Site is not big enough at the moment.

It was suggested that surely putting a lift at the musuem would solve the accessability issue!

The people in charge of our museums did not even know the floor sizes between Broadfield House Glass Museum and the Red Cone Site.

Here is some of the press coverage of recent days

http://www.expressandstar.com/2009/07/24/public-pack-meeting-on-fate-of-glass-museum/

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/search/4505650.Glass_collectors_offer_to_raise_cash_for_museum/

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/search/4510965.Mayors_speak_out_over_glass_collection/

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/search/4511572.Empty_Woolies_store_could_house_glass_collection/

2009-07-20T14:07:00.000+01:00

A meeting is to be held regarding the future of Broadfield House Glass Museum

Thursday 23rd July 2009 at 7.00pm

At the Wordsley Community Centre
The Green
Wordsley
Stourbridge
DY8 5BN

Your chance to air your views about our local glass heritage.

2009-07-17T20:33:00.000+01:00

Save Our Glass Heritage held its second meeting with L & R Consultants on 16th July, at Broadfield House Glass Museum.

The Presentation to L & R was delivered by Dr Graham Cooley and Antique Roadshow experts, Will Farmer and Andy McConnell.

We shared a vision of creating a Centre of Excellence for Stourbridge Glass.

2009-07-12T22:46:00.000+01:00

Save Our Glass Heritage - Mission Statement

"We believe that the internationally important collections and archives held at the award winning Broadfield House Glass Museum should remain open to the public until a satisfactory alternative has been funded, built and commissioned. Only then should they be moved to the new venue. If this cannot be achieved the status quo should prevail."

2009-07-12T14:16:00.001+01:00

We have been celebrating our glass heritage at the Reflections Weekend at the Ruskin Glass Centre. It was great to see Malcolm Andrews blowing glass and meeting John Luxton.

2009-07-08T19:59:00.000+01:00

Today Charles Hajdamach, Allister Malcolm and myself had a positive meeting with L & R Consultants, Andrew Meredith and Rosemary Allen.

The process of the feasability study has now started and we remain hopeful that a there will be a good outcome for the glass collections and archives.

2009-07-03T20:50:00.000+01:00

Today Ian Austin MP came to Broadfield House Glass Museum and backed the Save Our Glass Heritage Campaign.

Ian met up with Allister Malcolm in the Hot Glass Studio to see him making glass. Ian is holding a glass vase made by Allister.

Ian Austin is also pictured here with me in the award winning glass pavillion.

2009-06-25T18:09:00.000+01:00

Glass feasibility study: project brief

A copy of the project brief used to appoint consultants to carry out a feasibility study into the amalgamation of the renowned glass collections at Broadfield House Glass Museum and those at Red House Glass Cone is available via the following link http://www.dudley.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/museums--galleries/glass-museum/broadfield-house-feasibility-study

2009-06-25T17:29:00.000+01:00

Today Charles Hajdamach has been on the radio at 102.5 the Bridge and Linda Waltho will be speaking on the radio on Saturday 27th June between 12 and 1pm.

We are also looking forward to the Reflections Weekend on the 11th and 12th July to bring back past glass memories. This event is also being organised in support of Broadfield House Glass Museum, by Ian, Simon and Brett from the Ruskin Centre.

I will be there with fellow campaigners to promote the cause, handing out leaflets and inviting people to visit the glass museum.

2009-06-23T23:10:00.000+01:00

MP criticises council on Stourbridge glass museum plans

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/politics-news/2009/06/24/mp-criticises-council-on-stourbridge-glass-museum-plans-65233-23960130/

2009-06-23T20:44:00.001+01:00

The Culture Minister, Barbara Follett MP, warns Dudley Council not to take risks with the collection, not to implement and unnecessary closures and to listen to the local community

http://www.politics.co.uk/mps/press-releases/party-politics/labour/council-must-work-with-local-people-–-says-minister-$1305699.htm

Former Stuart Crystal shop at the Red House Glass Cone up for sale.

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/4452403.Special_meeting_on_glass_saga_organised/

2009-06-23T19:14:00.000+01:00

I gave Chris from BBC radio WM a tour around Broadfield today.

He saw wine glasses being made in the Hot Glass Studio, press clippings from the campaign and commented on how impressive the museum was.

We were also joined by Malcolm Andrews who was Head Cutter at Corbett Webb/Royal Doulton for 30 years.

Here is a picture of Malcolm Andrews admiring the glass he cut, in the cameo room at Broadfield Glass Museum.

Chris also enjoyed seeing the Graham Cooley Czech Glass Collection.

Simon and Ian from the Ruskin also introduced the Glass reflections weekend they will be holding on the 11th and 12th July to WM.

2009-06-22T18:43:00.000+01:00

Today we have made front page of the express and star!

2009-06-22T08:33:00.000+01:00

BBC WM are backing our campaign!

I did an interview with Phil Upton this morning and they have been playing it on the news every half hour.

live feed http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/console/bbc_wm/

recordings http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/radio/bbc_wm/

2009-06-19T19:40:00.000+01:00

Minister warns council not to risk glass collection!

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/4448753.Minister_warns_council_not_to_/

2009-06-19T16:08:00.000+01:00

You can read a transcript of the Parliamentary debate here

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200809/cmhansrd/cm090618/debtext/90618-0019.htm#09061861000003

You can read the Agenda and Minutes of the Dudley Council Select Committee Meeting of 3rd June, at which I submitted a list of searching questions...

http://cmis.dudley.gov.uk/CMISWebPublic/Meeting.aspx?meetingID=1408

2009-06-18T21:06:00.000+01:00

A Parliamentary debate on the Stourbridge Glass Collection held at Broadfield House Glass Museum was held today.

Lynda Waltho MP raised our concernes with Culture Minister Barbara Follett

You can watch it here http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Main/Player.aspx?meetingId=4213 fast forward to 07:16:00

Or click on play on my recording below

2009-06-16T23:29:00.000+01:00

Hi Everyone, I've received the following info from Lynda Waltho MP’s office, regarding the debate in Westminster on Thursday 18th June 2009 about the fate of Broadfield House Glass Museum.

As per request below we all need to be contacting our MPs with our concerns, so these can be raised with Barbara Follett - the culture minister.

The debate on Thursday is an Adjournment Debate and follows the main business of the day in the Commons chamber, so it will be whenever the main business finishes. On a Thursday this is usually about 5pm, but it could be any time between 4 and 6pm. The debate will last for 30 minutes, so Lynda will speak for about 15 minutes and the Minister will respond. Other interested MPs can speak briefly but they have to let Lynda know beforehand. As it’s an adjournment debate it doesn’t have a vote. It is a vehicle whereby MPs can raise matters of concern in the House of Commons and have a minister respond. This is about getting it on the record and also holding (in this case) Dudley Council to account for their decisions etc.

Campaign supporters in should contact their own MPs and ask them to lobby the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Barbara Follett will be the Minister replying to Lynda on Thursday so if she were to receive letters/emails from other MPs (or your supporters could email her directly) supporting the campaign then that would be great.

http://www.barbara-follett.org.uk/contact/index.html

2009-06-12T21:05:00.000+01:00

Today we held a Save Our Glass Heritage Press Conference. Below is a picture of Charles Hajdamach, Sue Hill, Janet Hendry, Graham Fisher MBE and Geoff Hill MBE outside Dunsley Hall, Kinver. Linda Waltho MP has been granted a debate in Westminster, to discuss Broadfield House Glass Museum on the 18th June 2009.

2009-05-25T20:27:00.000+01:00

Liz Lynne Euro MP arrived at Broadfield House with Councillor Dave Tyler. She met Allister Malcolm the resident glass artist at the Broadfield Glass Studio. Since January Liz is the most high profile MP to see first hand the world class glass Museum in the UK and what it means to the local people.

She also met Barbara and Janet to discuss ways of getting Euro funding to help the Glass Museum.

2009-05-19T20:08:00.000+01:00

Lenny Henry backs the Save Our Glass Heritage Campaign!

Published in the Express & Star 19th May 2009 on the Front Page

2009-05-12T18:34:00.000+01:00

The Save Our Glass Heritage Spring Concert was a success. The music was great and everyone joined in the singing at the end.

Ian Pearson MP, Lynda Waltho MP was there, Councillor Dave Tyler and Councillor Rachel Harris. Geoff Hill MBE as well as the communities of Stourbridge and Kingswinford.

We had a live link up to Bridge radio and the first song was a South African Song "Malabulabu". The Stream of Sound Choir raised the roof with their emotional singing. Other acts followed, Robyn and David on flute and double bass. Chrissie Homer, Hannah Payton, Richard Boxley and Alun Davies.

This was a free event to raise awareness for the glass heritage in Stourbridge and Kingswinford.
The communities of this area do not want their glass museum to shut and the contents be moved to a lesser facility. The campaign has gained momentum over the last few months and we are well on the way to prove the voices of the community must be heard!

2009-04-24T20:05:00.000+01:00

The campaign team would like to thank Richard Boxley, Robyn Parry, David Jackson, Alun Davies, and Hannah Paynton Stream of Sound for agreeing to play at our Spring Concert.

Rehersals have started and the musicians sound really good.

Posters are going up in Kingswinford and we have been featured in the Express and Star Newspaper.

2009-04-11T21:53:00.000+01:00

Save our glass heritage - Spring Concert will be held on Sat 9th May 2009 at Kingswinford Methodist Church. This concert is being held as part of a campaign to save the Stourbridge glass and archive heritage. This is the area's identity and glass has been locally made for more than 200 years.

Save our glass heritage want to highlight the importance of keeping the Stourbridge glass collection and archives together and not close Broadfield House Glass Museum prematurely.

We welcome a better facility but require firm assurances that the current facility is not reduced in any way.

A Big thanks to Jenny and Allistair for helping me organise the Spring Concert.

2009-04-11T21:44:00.000+01:00

A special mention for Allister Malcolm who will be featuring his work at our forthcoming Spring Concert. Allister is the talented Glass Designer at Broadfield House Glass Museum.

2009-04-05T12:29:00.000+01:00

Handing in of the petition!

At the area council meeting 6120 signatures were handed in by Councillor Dave Tyler on behalf of the Friends and the glass association.

2009-04-03T19:56:00.000+01:00

Bridge Radio invited me to speak about save our glass heritage campaign. Recognising the importance of the current situation, Graham Fisher gave me a 1 hour slot on his show. We ended the interview with Queen's "We are the Champions" dedicated to the Friends of the Museum and all the staff at Broadfield House Glass Museum!

http://www.thebridgeradio.net/index2.html

2009-03-29T19:19:00.000+01:00

BBC WM Interview

Today I was speaking on the radio to Carl Chin. We discussed the brilliant news that Broadfield House Glass Museum has won 2 awards at the "Best of West" cermony held at the Herbert Museum Coventry.

He was interested in our local issue and said he would be doing a debate on the subject soon on his show.

You can hear it here 4 minutes into the show.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p002jrbm/Carl_Chinn_29_03_2009/

2009-03-28T19:47:00.000Z

Congratulations to all the hardworking staff at our local Museum!

Broadfield House Glass Museum picks up 2 awards at the "Best of the West" ceremony in Coventry! We were the only museum nominated in 2 categories and we won both!!

Roger Dodsworth won the Best Individual category and the glass dresses by Diana Dias Leao, won Best exhibition on a low budget category on 26th March 2009

http://www.stourbridgenews.co.uk/news/4240273.Threatened_museum_scoops_top_awards/#show

Community of Stourbridge and Kingswinford come together for local Glass Heritage.

2009-03-22T16:56:00.000Z

MPs Ian Pearson and Linda Waltho arrived at Broadfield House Glass Museum on Friday 20th March at 1.45pm to support local community in their campaign to save the collection at Broa, adfield House Glass Museum. Amblecote Primary School sang a beautiful song called "Freedom" to welcome the dignatories. Local clergy, president and chairman of the British Legion in Kingswinford and members of local schools were present. Linda Waltho MP also saw the exhibits in the Museum and talked to Friends of the Museum.

We celebrated our glass heritage and made a positive statement that we are proud of our glass industry in this area.

The Museum was busy with Wollescote Primary inside doing workshops and Amblecote Primary welcoming the dignatories, and the sun shone too!