A MAJOR attraction visited by more than half a million visitors every year has suddenly shut due to “health and safety concerns”.
Ticketholders headed to Cardiff were given no notice of the sudden closure when they turned up yesterday.
According to a printed notice stuck near the entrance, National Museum Cardiff will remain closed to the public “until further notice”.
The sign quoted “building maintenance” as well as “health and safety concerns” as the main reasons for the announcement.
It reassuringly added how the “preservation” of collections remains at their “top priority” during this time period.
The museum is usually free to enter, offering exhibitions and art for all.
From natural history to contemporary art, the installations will not be available after the “difficult decision” to “temporarily close” the doors to the public.
The latest information has been set to be posted on the social media channels for the museum.
In a recent Instagram story, the attraction recommended that hopefully visitors head to St Fagans National Museum of History in the meantime.
A statement released on behalf of the attraction was released yesterday.
It read: “Due to a requirement for immediate maintenance work, Amgueddfa Cymru has made the difficult decision to temporarily close National Museum Cardiff to the public for a short period.
“The safety and well-being of our visitors, staff, and the preservation of our collections will always remain our top priority which is why we have taken this short-term measure to close the museum.
“While this closure is necessary to ensure that the building meets all safety standards, we recognise the impact this may have on our visitors, volunteers and the community.
“Our team is working diligently to address the identified issues and to make the necessary repairs and improvements to guarantee the safety of all those who interact with the museum.
“We will continue to assess the situation and provide updates on our progress but are hopeful that these issues will be addressed over the next few days.
“We sincerely appreciate the understanding and support of our visitors and look forward to welcoming you back soon. For the latest information, please visit our website or follow us on our social media channels. Thank you for your cooperation and patience. “
Some have since taken to social media to express their thought on the latest update.
One person wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “until further NOTICE??? why don’t you have a project plan of the works to be carried out.”
Another said: “Obvs an urgent problem has occurred – hope you are able to sort it. But pretty galling that nothing of closure on website at around 11.45am and you took online payment from us for 12.15 admission to the Streic exhibition! Love @Museum_Cardiff but you made it hard work today!”
Someone else put: “All the schools that visit. It’s so important to Welsh children. And they close it.”
A fourth commented: “Very disappointed to arrive in Cardiff to find this. Any news on a reopening?”
While one user said: “Couldn’t have posted that you were closed today before tens of people turned up for opening?”
It comes after the deteriorating condition of the museum was revealed as a potential risk that could result in closure.
The Welsh Government cut the budget by £4.5m and the Chief Executive of Museum Wales told BBC Radio Wales that it was “extremely difficult” trying to cope with the reductions.
Discussions over the museum charging visitors for special events, tours and exhibitions were also heard.
The Sun has approached National Museum Cardiff for comment.
The National Museum Cardiff has shut its doors suddenly amidst ‘health and safety concerns’[/caption]
