10/6/2008

Historic heritage sites in Wales are to be open free of charge to children and pensioners.

Heritage Minister Rhodri Glyn Thomas today outlined plans to introduce free access for Welsh children and pensioners to all Cadw charging sites throughout Wales from September 1. Cadw is the Assembly Government's historic environment service.

The announcement will fulfil the One Wales Commitment and follows the announcement in February that entrance to Blaenafon Ironworks would be free from last Easter.  The minister also announced free entry for all at Caerleon Roman Fortress Baths – also from September 1. 2008.  

Like Blaenafon, the current charging policy at the Roman Baths is confusing because the National Roman Legion Museum site is free, as are the amphitheatre, fosse and barracks and this is deterring visitors from gaining a full understanding of the wider historic context of the monuments.  

During a plenary debate today the minister, said:� My vision is for an accessible well protected historic environment, appreciated not only in its own right but also for the contribution it can make to the economy and revitalising local communities.  

“There are a variety of barriers to people being able to taking advantage of the heritage around them – these are physical, intellectual and financial. The Assembly Government, through Cadw, is working on a major work programme that will make the heritage sites in our care more accessible physically and intellectually to maximise the full potential of the historic environment.

“An increasing number of visitors are intrigued and engaged by ancient monuments and historic buildings and demand much more from visitor attractions. Innovative ideas and use of modern technology and imaginative solutions have become a necessity to not only attract a new audience but also to keep current visitors satisfied.

“Cadw is managing a major interpretation project that will put in place a framework that will engage and sustain new audiences with the historic environment. The project will contribute to the Assembly Government’s agendas in regeneration, lifelong learning, social cohesion and tourism development by enabling individuals and communities to enjoy and engage with their surroundings.

“Free access is the final piece in the jigsaw that will help open up the historic environment to a wider audience. The historic environment is important in giving us a sense of place and purpose and can make an enormous difference to people’s lives.�