The Carmen Heritage Trust Transport Museum in London, a project developed with support from Grundon Waste Management via the Landfill Communities Fund (LCF), was recently officially opened by Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal.
During her visit the Princess, a Past Master of the Carmen’s Company, unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the 1834 restored Grade 1 listed Old School’s completion as Carmen’s Hall – one of the world’s oldest transport bodies’ headquarters, and as a new centre of transport education for public benefit.
Combining a small museum and a multi-purpose gallery complete with meeting and workshop spaces, the centre is a project particularly close to the heart of Grundon President Norman Grundon, who has been one of the driving forces behind Grundon’s own collection of historic waste vehicles.
“We were absolutely delighted when HRH the Princess Royal graciously accepted the invitation to attend and I was honoured to be part of this very special occasion,” said Norman.
“The history of transport is something that is especially dear to my own heart as, without all our vehicles throughout the years, Grundon could not have developed into the successful business it is today.”
Norman Grundon
President
“We see it as essential that the history of ‘cartmen’, and the wider contribution that transport and logistics have made to this country, is preserved and shared to as wide an audience as possible. With this centre now open, it is the perfect place to do so.”
The Worshipful Company of Carmen St. Dunstan Heritage Trust was established to restore and develop the derelict Georgian school in the heart of London’s Fleet Street into the centre of educational excellence it is today.
It features the latest technology, including AV equipment and video conferencing facilities, designed to help students expand their knowledge of the industry and to encourage and support those considering careers in transport and logistics.
Playing a significant part in supporting the work was Grundon’s funding of £58,000 via the LCF, which is designed to help local community and environmental projects.
The funding, provided in three stages as the project developed, enabled installation of new lifts to improve accessibility, improvements to the public resource and display areas, and restoration of the Grade 1 listed building.
The grant project was managed by environmental charity Groundwork South. Project Officer, Michelle Jones, said: “This was an interesting and engaging project with public education at its heart and we were very pleased to work with both Grundon and the Carmen Heritage Trust throughout the process.
“To see all their hard work and determination come to fruition is very rewarding indeed.”
