The MLA completed the final piece of its reorganisation jigsaw with the announcement that it will take over the operations of MLA London by the end of the year.
The move follows months of negotiations with the Mayor of London, who has a statutory right to nominate the chair of the MLA’s London region. Trustees of MLA London have agreed to support the changes and move to wind-up the last remaining regional MLA agency and complete the major shake-up of the museums body.
Following its reorganisation last year, the MLA has already set up area teams covering the North, West and East, each headed by a director, supported by a regional manager in each English region and a small team of area engagement advisors. A spokesman for the MLA said a similar structure would be in place for London, but it was not yet known how large that team would be. The new structure also proposes a London sub-group of MLA’s Board to focus on the delivery of priorities for the Capital.
Geoffrey Bond, chair of MLA London, said: We recognise that the best future for museums, libraries and archives in London lies in having a team integrated within MLA, increasing efficiency, working closely with the Mayor’s Office.”
• The MLA has set up a £100,000 small grants programme to promote adult informal learning . Museums, libraries and archives may apply for grants of up to £5000 for projects to be delivered by end March 2010. The deadline for applications is 17 July.