City's archive service retains top accreditation

The service was first awarded the accreditation in 2015

Wolverhampton City Archives says it has retained prestigious accreditation acknowledging its high standards in preserving key collections and documents.

The service, at the Molineux Hotel Building on Whitmore Hill contains a wealth of material including maps, books, census returns and electoral registers.

Following a three-year review inspection, National Archives said the service provided an excellent standard of customer service, preserved collections in line with national standards and was "a robust, sustainable" operation.

More than 3,000 people made use of the free service in 2024/5, the first time that number was reached since before the pandemic and a 23% rise on the previous year, the city council said.

The service was first awarded the Archive Service Accreditation in 2015.

National Archives said following its inspection it was "impressed by the progress made around digital preservation since the award of accreditation and the efforts made by the service regarding succession planning".

Council cabinet member for digital and community Obaida Ahmed congratulated staff, adding the recognition was "testament to the excellent service the team offer to residents and visitors to the city".

"It is a valuable resource and is well utilised in the city by those wanting to research and explore the rich history that we have of Wolverhampton and its people."