Bishops' House fears
RESIDENTS near Bishops' House museum – the best preserved timber-framed house in Sheffield – fear its future could be at risk because of arson attacks.
They say the house, which was built around 1500, was due to be fenced off from Meersbrook Park, but nothing has happened.
David Holt, secretary of Thorpe House Residents' Association, told councillors: "Bishops' House is one of Sheffield's hidden gems but it's in a vulnerable position and has had numerous broken windows and graffiti and there have been two incidents of arson.
"Sheffield Museums have spent millions developing Weston Park but the oldest building in their care hasn't received any attention. The ultimate loss will be to the people of Sheffield as there's not much point promoting a burnt-out pile of rubble in a park."
Nick Dodd, chief executive of Museums Sheffield, said a number of security measures have been implemented.
"While we've been working on the huge Weston Park project we've continued to explore funding sources for Bishops' House. However, as our smallest museum and with relatively low visitor figures compared to our other museums, it has proved difficult to attract interest from major funders. We want to continue our ongoing discussions with both our visitors and Sheffield Council, who own of the building, to realise this museum's potential."
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Weather for Sheffield
Thursday 24 May 2012
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