The West Highland Museum Redevelopment Campaign

Standing in the heart of Fort William, the West Highland Museum is a well-loved feature of the town. Last year, a thousand local children and almost 60,000 visitors from around the world passed through its doors.

Visitors frequently share how much they appreciate the ambience of the museum and the collections it houses. These exhibits range from the carefully honed harpoon of a Neolithic hunter found on the beach at Arisaig to the modern history of aluminium smelting in today’s Lochaber. Across six galleries, the museum tells some of the most significant stories from the West Highlands, representing the distinct language and culture of the Highlands and Islands in collections of international significance.

But this success comes at a cost. While business growth is welcome, income and infrastructure need to keep pace with demand. Furthermore, the ever-present need to tell new stories—and old stories in new ways—requires the museum to review its relationship with both its building and the community it serves.

A Vision for Renewal

After two years, the museum’s plan to redevelop has reached a significant milestone. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has offered to back 43% of a £6.2 million renewal programme, providing the museum can raise the remaining balance. The team now has just eighteen months to secure these funds.

The renewed museum will be a world-class destination at the heart of the community, sharing stories of both local culture and its rich industrial heritage. The project will contribute to the continuing transformation of the High Street while ensuring that the local community has access to inspiring and informative stories.

This strong sense of place will allow the museum to:

• Sustain its commitment to free access.

• Offer a range of temporary exhibitions exploring aspects of Lochaber life.

• Create an accessible green space and herbarium.

• Open a dedicated Centre for Outreach, Learning, and Research.

• Provide full access to all galleries.

How to Support the Campaign

To achieve these ambitions, the West Highland Museum requires external financial support. They are asking supporters to consider helping in at least one of three ways:

1. Donate directly to the Capital fund.

2. Support ongoing costs by offering a regular donation as a company or individual, or by becoming a member or Patron. [Insert QR code here]

3. Use your network to spread the word and connect the museum with others who may be willing to contribute.

The museum is also seeking time and ideas. Anyone who feels that they or their business can help is encouraged to get in touch with the campaign leaders, who will be very happy to answer any questions:

• Karen Dean: [email protected]

• Pete Short: [email protected]

Thank you for supporting the West Highland Museum.