A new era in the Crescent’s fascinating history was marked with the launch of the Buxton Crescent & Thermal Spa Heritage Trust in a celebratory event in the Pump Room. Over 80 guests joined the Trust’s Patron the Duke of Devonshire and the Duchess, the Trust Chair James Berresford and Trustees on 20th June in the Grade 2 Victorian Pump Room which has recently been restored.
The Heritage Trust has been established to preserve the stunning Crescent buildings and to create an inspiring visitor experience in The Pump Room and a suite of rooms in The Crescent. The Trust will be run by people who are passionate about the Crescent, its heritage and the town. As a charitable organisation The Trust will receive start up and development funding from The Heritage Lottery Fund, High Peak Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council, but will not receive regular funding in the future, so will be launching a fundraising campaign to deliver it’s aims and to develop an exceptional asset for the town and area,
James Berresford, Chair of the newly formed Trust commented that “The Visitor Experience and year round programme of events in the Assembly Rooms will allow the community and visitors to ‘step’ into the history of the Crescent and Pump Rooms and learn about the fascinating stories of our spa heritage, the Crescent and its restoration, the town and the characters that made it all happen. The Experience will complement Buxton’s and the area’s other attractions. ”
The Friends of Buxton Crescent & Thermal Spa was also launched at the event in the Pump Room. The Friend’s support will help the Trust deliver their aims. Benefits of membership include invitations to events in the Pump Room, an opportunity to get involved with the project and events and discounts and offers once the Crescent Visitor Experience opens in 2019.
The Duke of Devonshire, Patron of the Trust commented that, “my ancestor the 5th Duke of Devonshire had the vision to build the Crescent and I look forward to playing a part in the next chapter of this remarkable building. Surrounded by the hills of the Peak District this spa, university and market town is entering a renaissance. I invite and encourage you to support the great work and plans of the Trust and become a Friend”
