Good news! The History Centre has been saved.

THE HISTORY CENTRE WILL REMAIN AT BRIGHTON MUSEUM UNTIL THE KEEP, THE NEW RECORD OFFICE, AT FALMER IS READY

Unfortunately The Keep has not attracted lottery funding, so the building will be smaller than originally planned. It seems that the important public areas may be reduced, which could mean that the History Centre may remain at Brighton Museum. How fortunate that it was not closed!

Planning permission for the Keep has not yet been applied for, though it building is due to start in 2011, but will probably not be completed and fitted out until 2015 or even later.

The Council’s own website describes the History Centre as “the place to come to research any aspect of the City’s heritage.” It houses reference materials such as newspapers, electoral roles, a complete set of street directories, public health reports, photographs, unpublished works including university theses, census returns etc. It is invaluable as a resource for people researching both local and family history.

Many people joined the campaign to save the History Centre by writing to Councillor Smith cabinet member for culture, their local councillor, the Argus, and signing – along with almost 1,200 people – the e-petition. It was a concerted effort from many organisations, and individuals