Cllr Justin Tomlinson was interviewed on Radio Swindon this morning to discuss the 16% increase in visitors to STEAM over the Summer school holidays.
As the Lead Member for Swindon Services which covers STEAM, I was delighted to report a 16% increase in visitor figures for the museum.
STEAM has had a difficult first few years, with visitor figures only 1/4 the predicted numbers, and losses of over £500 000 per year helping drive Council Tax bills up.
The Labour Council made many mistake during the launch and opening of the museum, and this is something the Conservatives have tackled. Last year we were able to cut the losses by £90 000, and we are looking to further trim the losses by £50 000 - £100 000.
We have also set about bringing in more customer focused attractions to help drive up the visitor numbers and working on a variety of projects:
Labour & Liberal Councillors queued up to take the credit when this museum was opening, but it only the Conservatives who are prepared to make the decisions to get the customers queuing at STEAM.
If we are to end Labour's 42% Council Tax hikes in just 3 years, we must make the Council facilities work.