I've spent the evening having a few very welcome glasses of red wine (so get ready for more spelling mistakes than normal by me) and chatting on the phone, whilst giving your 'challenge' a bit of thought Graham.
I think, on balance, we've drawn the problem to the attention of as many people as possible, which in itself is great. BUT, if we are not careful there will be as many plans as people viewing this thread (let alone those who have been kind enough to put their thoughts down for us to consider - for which I thank with deep sincerity).
If we are going to get anything done I have a suspicion that there has to be work done in the background, before reporting back to everyone with a plan (or plans) to be considered by all. After all we cannot
all canvas the councillors or MP's involved at this stage, because, if nothing else, it may fall on deaf ears. Best to know and understand their various positions regarding Broadfield House and its collection(s) before approaching them en mass.
At that point it may well be that people here should be asked what their expertise is and what they might consider contributing to a concerted effort to, at worst, save the collection and its archive and, at best, create a situation where the museum is elevated into a better position than it is now (well a guy can dream). In other words take on board the constructive suggestions so far, whilst also being fully aware that a healthy dose of realism is necessary to keep us on the straight and narrow (thank you, Marcus
.
I also have a suspicion that we will be greeted and understood better if
we understand the problems involved with the particular situation and come up with practical solution(s) - even if that involves creating a business plan - possibly even with the view to creating funds that had not even been thought of by the council.
Yes, I know this would be a tall order in normal circumstances, but
now? Well, that is the challenge folks, however sobering.
Kind wishes to all, Nigel