After nearly a century in the heart of Birkenhead, Wirral, The Williamson Art Gallery & Museum is in danger of being closed due to budget cuts by The Wirral Borough Council.  

The Williamson has been a part of the Wirral community for 92 years, where it has been much more than just a place for people of all ages to see beautiful art, it has served as a true hub of the community. It has welcomed people of all ages, of all walks of life and backgrounds throughout its time, and its closure will leave many people's lives much emptier and lonelier.

As well as its historically important permanent collection of wonderful art and artefacts, including a collection of ship models connected to Merseyside’s shipping history, it frequently hosts exciting and accessible guest exhibitions of contemporary artists. Its regular workshops for children, families, and adults have been a great favourite for many people across the Wirral community. Its programme of musical performances has been an important platform for classical and contemporary musicians from the North West.

To close the Williamson would deprive many people on the Wirral of access to the Arts on the Wirral. It was purpose built to do just that, and the council has offered no alternative.

We recently asked the people of Wirral to share their memories and experiences of The Williamson, and how it has enhanced their lives:

"I love the opportunity to spend time being creative with my boys," - Jane, West Kirby.

"I've been going to the Williamson for over 50 years, I can't begin to describe what a gap it would leave if it closed," - Jane, Birkenhead.

"The Williamson is beyond value, a centre of calm and beauty on the Wirral, we need it now more than ever," - Denis, Hoylake.

"The Williamson Art Gallery has enriched my life and my mental health," - David, Birkenhead.

"[It's] a great place to bring children for their first experience of a gallery," - Stephanie, Hoylake.

"It is one of the few places I can take my autistic son," - Jennifer, West Kirby.

"As a child, I danced through the rooms... experiencing feelings of independence," - Ana, Liverpool

How can you help?

We need your help to save this historic centre of art and community.

Please sign and share this petition.

Write to your local councillor if you are a Wirral resident.

Register and complete the Wirral Council Consultation (closing date 22nd January 2021): www.haveyoursay.wirral.gov.uk

Thank you for taking the time to read this and complete this petition. If you have any memories of The Williamson, we would love for you to share them on our Facebook page: Williamson and Priory Friends.