THE Torfaen Museum Trust has received funding of more than £90,000 to help make it “more sustainable”.

The charity, which celebrated its 40th anniversary earlier this year, is based at Pontypool Museum and received confirmation last week from the Welsh Government that it is to be awarded £99,000 towards a Transformation Capital Project.

The project at Pontypool Museum is costing £110,000 in total and it aims to upgrade the museum building to make it more “sustainable”.

The work will also see the building have new energy efficient heating and lighting.

The project also includes architectural fees to re-design and cost the re-use and upgrading of the museum’s east wing including entrances - with possibly a modern, glass atrium.

Museum volunteers believe the funding will help to preserve the site and tell the history of the area for many more generations.

The award, one of only four in the country, was announced by Welsh Government minister for culture, sport and tourism, Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas.

Lord Elis-Thomas said: “I am delighted to be able to announce this funding of over £1.35 million for our museums, archives and libraries.

“The Welsh Government remains committed to supporting these important services.

“I look forward to visiting the new facilities in due course, and encourage everyone to see what their local museum, archive or library has to offer.”

The Trust’s chairman, Ivor Davies, said “This is great news for Pontypool Museum and is the result of hard work by the staff and volunteers of the Trust.

“All local residents and visitors to the area will benefit from the upgraded museum and the range of exhibitions, events and services it continues to offer.

“The trust is to matchfund the project and would like to thank Torfaen County Borough Council who will be giving extra funding - as well as Councillor Neil Waite and Blaenafon Town Council who have also pledged financial support.”

If you require any additional information, you can ring 01495 752036 or e-mail

pontypoolmusuem@hotmail.com