THE FUTURE of a new museum and art gallery for Swindon has moved a step closer with the appointment of an experienced museums expert to lead the project.

Hadrian Ellory-van Dekker, who is currently the Science Museum’s Head of Collections and Chief Curator has been announced as the new Director of the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Trust.

Trust Chairman Robert Hiscox said: “We are delighted to have attracted a Director of such calibre to lead our project to build a new museum and art gallery to be the heart of the new cultural quarter in Swindon.

“Hadrian has hugely valuable experience, recently at the acclaimed Science Museum, and his knowledge of art and science and his senior roles in museum management give great credibility to the venture.”

The 47-year-old, who has previously worked at the British Museum and the Metropolitan Museum in New York, will be responsible for building a viable and convincing funding bid to go before the Heritage Lottery Trust in an effort to secure a vital £12.5 million grant.

The remaining £10 million needed for the project will be made up of £5 million pledged by Swindon Borough Council and another £5 million secured from other private benefactors.

Other aspects of his role, which was advertised last year with an annual salary of £70,000, will include managing the design and build of the new site and establishing a forward programme of exhibitions and activities prior to its launch.

The new museum and gallery will house a collection of 20th century modern art which is considered by experts to be one of the most significant outside of the capital, the majority of the works cannot be displayed in the current gallery in Old Town due to its size.

The council also hopes that the site will put Swindon on the cultural map of the UK, boosting regeneration and the economy of the town centre.

Cllr David Renard, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, said: “Delivering a new museum and art gallery is one of the Council’s pledges and forms an integral part of our plans to breathe new life into the town centre.

“Hadrian’s appointment will help us in our quest to deliver on that pledge and his expertise will be invaluable as we continue the bid process with the Heritage Lottery Fund.”

Hadrian Ellory-van Dekker said: “I feel both honoured and privileged to be appointed the Trust’s first Director.

“This is an incredibly exciting and once-in-a-career opportunity to make a real difference: to build a new art gallery and museum; to maximise the potential of, and continue to develop, a really great collection; and, building on the successes of the past and working with local communities, to place the art gallery and museum and its activities at the very heart of the town and its cultural life.

“In my previous role at the Science Museum Group, I have often been a visitor to Swindon. I am really looking forward to working with the great people and wonderful collection here.”