Peterhead Prison Museum to close in April amid plans for its future
Public consultation set for May to help shape the site's next chapter
The Peterhead Prison Museum will close its doors to the public on Sunday 19th April, offering the last chance for visitors to experience the attraction as it stands.
The closure pertains specifically to the museum aspect of the site, while the Prison Café and Lifeboat Museum will remain open daily to serve the public and local community.
Financial Strain and Investment
This decision follows a year of financial strain and operational issues, making it unsustainable to continue the museum in its current form. Over the past 12 months, substantial investments have been made to keep the site operational and to explore its future possibilities. The site’s maintenance demands considerable resources, typical of a historic building.
Fundraising Efforts
The Admiralty Gateway Charitable Trust recently raised £9,000 in a public campaign, contributing to the site's maintenance and supporting the lifeboat museum's operations. Despite the museum's closure, plans to develop Peterhead Prison into a more sustainable and enhanced visitor experience are underway.
Public Consultation and Community Involvement
A public consultation event is scheduled for 27th May at Peterhead Prison, inviting community members to offer their ideas and insights on the site's future. A WhatsApp group has also been established for locals to directly engage with Joel Campbell and the team shaping the plans for Peterhead Prison.
Continued Openings and Private Bookings
The Prison Café will continue to offer free access and hospitality, becoming a popular spot with scenic views over Peterhead harbour. Private bookings and educational tours will proceed during this period under the Education Behind Bars programme, maintaining the site's availability.
Visitors are encouraged to visit before the closure, particularly during the Easter holidays when special activities are planned. Joel Campbell, CEO of Cove Group, stated:
“Peterhead Prison is a truly unique site with huge potential for the future. However, to realise that potential, it has to be properly planned, financially sustainable, and aligned with the needs of the local community and the wider ambitions for the North East of Scotland.
What we are doing now is taking a step back to ensure we can move forward in the right way. This is not the end of the story for Peterhead Prison, it’s the start of a new chapter. With the right approach, this site has the potential to become something truly special, but we need to take the time to get that right.”