Decision details

Approval sought from Cabinet to progress DHC project primarily funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Total value of project £5.4 million over two phases (2026 – 2031)

(a)    That the Dorset History Centre’s request to proceed with externally funded development work on its capital project Past Lives, Future Proofed further to the anticipated submission of a Stage 2 application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund in November 2027 for £3.8 million and subsequent Delivery Phase of the project whose total value over both phases is £5.28 million, be approved.

(b)    That authority be delegated to the Executive Director for Economy and Environment, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Growth and Strategic Assets to approve spend decisions, including procurement, contract award, and payment of invoices, within the Total Scheme Budget for the Dorset History Centre capital project as detailed in paragraph 4.2, of the Cabinet report of 28 July 2026.

All activity will be undertaken in accordance with Dorset Council’s Contract Procedure Rules, Financial Regulations, Scheme of Delegation and applicable law. Procurement of services for the Delivery Phase of the project is contingent upon a successful Stage 2 application to NLHF.

(c)    That Dorset Council acts as financial guarantor: Dorset History Centre intends to bridge the current budget gap of £110,000 (see para 4.3 of the Cabinet report of 28 July 2026) by fundraising from a variety of sources.

In the event that this proved challenging, Dorset Council will meet the budget shortfall to ensure the viability of the project and the securing of the large capital grant from National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Reason for the decision

To support and endorse the development of a project that would result in significant inward investment in Dorset’s cultural infrastructure through the provision of capital improvements to Dorset History Centre and a pan-Dorset public engagement programme.