An investment of over £650,000 to boost the arts has been welcomed by Gwynedd Council. 

Welsh Government will invest money in the Lloyd George Museum, Llanystumdwy and Caernarfon Library.

Highgate, the childhood home of former UK Prime Minister David Lloyd George, receives over £150,000 to help safeguard and preserve the cottage and its collections, and create a better visitor experience.

The hope is to re-open Highgate cottage as a full part of the attraction in spring 2027.

Caernarfon Library has received funding of £500,000 for an ambitious project to modernise and transform it to meet the needs of the building now and in the future.

Improvements include a new glass front foyer, outdoor area with seating and recreation areas, more self-service machines and upgrading systems, a new purpose-built area for children and young people, a community centre with computers, meeting spaces and accessible kitchen, upgrading signage and shelving, and improvements to the building to support environmental sustainability.

Cllr Medwyn Hughes, Cabinet Member for Economy and Community welcomed the investment, adding: “The plans are exciting, and this funding will undoubtedly ensure that culture and history are within the grasp of locals and visitors for years to come.

“I look forward to seeing the improvements completed.”

Welsh Government Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport Heledd Fychan said: “This investment is to be welcomed.

“The Lloyd George Museum tells the story of one of Wales’s significant figures in British political history, and this funding will help safeguard this asset for future generations.

“Meanwhile, the transformation of Caernarfon Library will create a modern, accessible space at the heart of the community, ranging from a welcoming new entrance to dedicated areas for children and young people.

“Continued investment in our museums and libraries is essential to create vibrant spaces that serve people today and for years to come.”