Issue - meetings

Consideration has been given to the proposed actions to be taken by the Council (as Trustee) with trust money held relating to the Shipley Art Gallery, namely; the Shipley Gallery Fund and the McEune Bequest.

RESOLVED -

(i)

That the capital balance of the Shipley Gallery Fund being paid to Tyne and Wear Archives and Museums (TWAM) as a one-off payment, to be utilised in accordance with the original purpose of the fund be approved.

(ii)

That the McEune Bequest funds being used to support the acquisition of the John Christian collection, which reflects Shipley Art Gallery’s significance in the contemporary craft field be approved.

(iii)

That with regards to the Shipley Gallery Fund (registered with the Charity Commission), the Strategic Director, Corporate Services & Governance be authorised to carry out the required steps with the Commission and, where applicable, record or register the approved actions.

(iv)

That the Strategic Director, Corporate Resources be authorised to carry out the required steps to utilise the funds in accordance with the approved actions.

The above decisions have been made for the following reasons:

(A)

As Trustee, the Council is satisfied that the purposes of the trust to which the fund is subject can be carried out more effectively if the capital can be expended as set out in this report and that such action is in the best interests of the fund.

(B)

The income from the Shipley Gallery Fund is not a significant funding source.

(C)

To support costs associated with the insurance of the Gallery, the upkeep of the fabric of the Gallery and the repair and upkeep of the paintings.

(D)

The proven lack of need for the purchase of watercolours.

(E)

To contribute to the purchase of a collection that will enhance the Gallery and attract new visitors.

Councillor A Douglas declared a personal and pecuniary interest in the above matter because she is a member of the TWAM Strategic Board.