Future of Duff House is under review
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JOBS could go if Duff House in Banff closes in winter as part of review by Aberdeenshire Council to save money.
The council is looking to save £88,000 and it is feared that could affect the 25 full and part-time workers employed at the art gallery.
A council spokesman said: "Proposals being discussed with employees focus on an enhanced offering during the summer months, with visitors being guided around the house, providing a better opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of Duff House and the paintings on display from the national collection.
"The proposals also include a move into seasonal opening, which would result in the house being closed during the quiet winter months which, in recent years, has seen visitor numbers declining.
"One-off events like Christmas promotions, weddings and lectures would continue to be staged provided staff cover can be arranged. "Other proposed changes include reducing management and administrative staffing and altering the roles of staff so that they can be deployed more flexibly.
"There would also be a greater focus on education and outreach work, and better marketing."
Duff House does not make enough money to cover its costs, with deficit funding paid by the council. As they stand, the proposals are expected to save the council £88,000 a year.
Peter Johnston, chairman of the Friends of Duff House group, said: "Our concern is that it looks as if some staff will have to be made redundant or their conditions of employment will change in such a way that they will have little choice but to look elsewhere."
Duff House is operated through a unique partnership between Aberdeenshire Council, Historic Scotland and the National Galleries of Scotland. Aberdeenshire Council is responsible for the operational costs of running the house, including management and staffing costs and agreed as part of the council’s budget in November 2010 to review the costs in light of the financial restraints being imposed on the public sector.
The staff consultation ends on September 7, and their comments will be considered before any changes are implemented, added the council spokesman.
