A West Cumbrian museum, once a bustling hub of mining history, is set to reopen its doors, thanks to the efforts of a miner's son. The Haig Colliery Mining Museum in Kells, Whitehaven, has been empty since 2016, but a new chapter is about to begin. Mike Johnson, a Conservative councillor, has purchased the site, aiming to breathe life back into this historic landmark. With a cafe set to open later this month, Johnson is inviting community input to shape the museum's future. He envisions a multi-purpose space, catering to various needs, and is committed to preserving the area's rich mining heritage. The museum's closure in 2016 was due to financial struggles, but Johnson's passion for history and local heritage drives his mission to educate future generations about their ancestors' contributions. Haig Colliery, operational from 1916 to 1986, was Cumbria's last deep coal mine, producing coal for the iron and gas industry and domestic use. The site's transformation into a museum in 1997 and its scheduled monument status in 1998 highlight its cultural significance. While the museum faced financial challenges, Johnson's plans for the site are community-focused, aiming to create a space that serves the needs of the locals. With the cafe opening mid-March and the colliery building requiring extensive repairs, the museum's reopening is a step towards preserving and sharing the area's mining history with the world.
