A museum in Horncastle dedicated to local heritage, natural history, and the life and work of Sir Joseph Banks has been secured for future generations, thanks to support from East Lindsey District Council. The Sir Joseph Banks Society has successfully purchased its home building on Bridge Street, thanks to a £100,000 grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), distributed by the council, and a £47,500 contribution from the council’s East Lindsey Investment Fund (ELIF). The Society also raised over £60,000 towards the purchase.
Building with a Fascinating History
The building, which was on the market, houses a learning centre focused on local heritage and the life and achievements of Sir Joseph Banks, the scientist, explorer, and botanist who grew up in nearby Revesby. The centre attracts visitors from around the world and is managed by volunteers. It contains important natural science artefacts, including botanical and insect collections, and features a courtyard tribute garden with plants that Sir Joseph Banks helped discover. Without fundraising and the significant investment from the council, the centre’s future was at risk.
Plaque Unveiling Ceremony
Councillors Craig Leyland, William Gray, Adam Grist, Richard Avison, and Fiona Martin joined council officers, volunteers, and trustees to unveil two plaques celebrating the Society’s successful purchase. The event also included presentations from Heritage Lincolnshire, East Mercia Rivers Trust, and the Lincolnshire Community Foundation, all of which are delivering projects in Horncastle funded by ELIF and UKSPF.
Over £1 Million Invested in Horncastle
In the last two years, East Lindsey has invested over £1 million in grant funding in Horncastle and the surrounding area. Other projects include significant improvements to St. Mary’s Church, the new Prospect Street Play Park, a new wetland nature reserve, and a scheme of town centre improvements.
Council Leaders Express Pride
Councillor Craig Leyland, leader of East Lindsey District Council, and Councillor William Gray, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Better Ageing, said: “We are incredibly proud to have played a part in safeguarding such an important building for the community. Sir Joseph Banks’ legacy has shaped both Lincolnshire and the wider world, and we take great pride in that heritage. It’s why we felt so strongly about helping the Society in its efforts to keep the centre open and thriving. Through ELIF, we set out with four target areas, one of which was to promote the visitor economy. That goal, combined with the UKSPF theme of restoring a sense of community, local pride, and belonging, meant that this cause was absolutely something we knew we should support. We wish the Society good luck with their next steps and would encourage anyone who is curious about the area and Sir Joseph’s work to visit the centre at their earliest opportunity. It was also fascinating to hear more about the work of Heritage Lincolnshire, East Mercia Rivers Trust, and Lincolnshire Community Foundation. Horncastle is thriving thanks to the combined efforts of these organisations and the projects supported through both funds. We look forward to the continued delivery of these initiatives and to seeing the benefits they bring in the months ahead.”
