Broughty Castle Museum and Caird Park Golf Course are at risk of closure as Dundee City Council’s city governance committee is set to discuss their future next week.
The museum is expected to close in October 2025, while the golf course may shut down in April 2025. These closures could save Leisure and Culture Dundee (LACD) over £400,000 each year as it addresses a significant budget shortfall.
Although Broughty Castle Museum attracted 39,223 visitors in 2023/24, this number is still below pre-pandemic levels.
Closing the museum would save around £110,000 annually, with the site’s ownership reverting to Historic Environment Scotland.
At Caird Park, a decline in rounds played on both the nine- and 18-hole courses has resulted in each round being subsidised by £9.10, contributing to a £335,000 yearly deficit.
The potential loss of these facilities has led local groups to seek alternatives. The Broughty Ferry Traders Association has proposed a seasonal opening for the castle, while there may be opportunities for redevelopment or other uses at Caird Park before it is potentially transformed into parkland.
Although these closures are financially motivated, they have generated disappointment, highlighting the cultural and recreational importance of these sites to Dundee.
In contrast, Mills Observatory has secured its future through a combination of private and public funding, ensuring it remains open.
Councillors are set to vote on the proposals on December 2.
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