A five-year vision for Bath & North East Somerset Council’s heritage services to grow visitor numbers and enrich the cultural offer has been approved by councillors at a cabinet meeting (Thursday, March 13).

The Heritage Services Business Plan sets out strategic priorities for the next five years, focusing adapting to economic challenges, developing the Fashion Museum and investment in new research to strengthen the Council’s visitor attractions.

The report highlights outstanding financial performance at The Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery in 24/25, and further growth expected in 2025/26.

Over the past year, The Roman Baths has generated more surplus return to the Council than ever before. This will amount to approximately £145 per council tax household in Bath and North East Somerset. This income plays a vital role in funding essential council services across Bath and North East Somerset.

The introduction of guided tours, a new audio guide, and events such as silent discos and torchlit evening openings have enhanced the visitor experience, meeting demand for immersive and memorable experiences.

The Victoria Art Gallery has also had a standout year, with ticketed exhibition visitors increasing by over 55 per cent year-on-year. Toulouse-Lautrec and the Masters of Montmartre became the most successful paid exhibition in the gallery’s history, drawing nearly 30,000 visitors.

Meanwhile, conservation work on the historic roof is nearing completion, ensuring the long-term protection of the Grade II*-listed building.

Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development, said: "Bath’s heritage is one of its greatest assets, and it’s fantastic to see The Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery thriving in a challenging climate.

“Their continued success not only enhances our cultural offering but also directly supports council services that benefit residents across the district. This report reaffirms our commitment to protecting, investing in, and sharing our world-class heritage for future generations."

The report outlines Heritage Services’ five-year business plan, setting out priorities to achieve its vision: “Learn from the past, understand the present, and shape the future.”

Heritage Services is also committed to delivering social value, aligning its work with the Council’s Economic Strategy and Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy. This includes opening a new learning and community engagement space at Victoria Art Gallery, expanding the Discovery Card scheme, and growing the volunteer programme.

Environmental sustainability remains a priority, with efforts focused on improving building efficiency, adopting sustainable procurement practices, and encouraging public and active travel. The safety, security, and conservation of heritage buildings and collections will continue to be at the forefront, reinforced by The Roman Baths' full accreditation from Arts Council England in 2024.

A major capital project over the next five years will be the relocation of the Fashion Museum to the Old Post Office. The project will focus on audience engagement, research, collections care, social value, and financial sustainability. A provisional capital budget has been allocated, with key milestones set for 2025/26.

For more information visit https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/.