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Dumfries House saved for nation
27/06/2007
The Scottish Government is part of a newly-formed consortium that has reached agreement with the Marquis of Bute to purchase the 18th century Dumfries House and its collection to safeguard it for the nation.
The announcement of the agreement came today from Prince Charles who brought together the consortium to fund the acquisition of the house on the edge of Cumnock in East Ayrshire.
The Scottish Government, through Historic Scotland, is contributing £5 million towards the £45 million total cost of the project.
The business plan limits the financial involvement of the Scottish government. The house will be run by an independent trust, the Great Steward's Dumfries House Trust. It is hoped it will open to the public next year.
First Minister Alex Salmond said:
"I am delighted that the Scottish Government has been able to support the Duke of Rothesay's excellent initiative and save Dumfries House and its contents for the Scottish Nation.
"When His Royal Highness told me of his plans I was determined to do what we could to help. The house and its exquisite furniture collection are internationally acclaimed - a world class product of the Scottish Enlightenment.
"I want them to become a showcase for a newly confident Scotland; and a catalyst for increased tourism and imaginative regeneration in the South-West of Scotland. Historic Scotland will now work with the other partners to ensure this joint venture succeeds."
The consortium comprises the Prince's Charities Foundation, Historic Scotland, The Art Fund, The Garfield Weston Foundation, The Monument Trust, the National Heritage Memorial Fund, and SAVE Britain's Heritage.
An auction sale of the house's contents due to be held next month will not now proceed.