New Robert Burns museum given extra £1m
- Published
The museum will house the most important Robert Burns collection in the world
The Scottish government has promised more than £1m to ensure a new museum dedicated to Scotland's national bard will open in December.
The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, Ayrshire, aims to attract visitors from over the world.
The funding will allow the National Trust for Scotland to develop more Burns-themed sites in the town.
Plans include a footbridge to link new heritage trails to five other sites which have connections to Burns.
The funding brings the Government's support for the £21m project to £8.6 m.
World class venue
Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop said: "Burns is a Scottish cultural icon, recognised all around the world. His legacy brings thousands of tourists to Scotland every year.
"The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum development will provide a single experience telling the story of the man in a way that has not been possible until now."
Kate Mavor chief executive of the National Trust for Scotland, said: "We are very pleased to have this additional and generous support from the Scottish government.
"The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is shaping up to be a world-class venue."
Robert Burns, who died in 1796, is widely regarded as the national poet of Scotland.