A survey conducted by Marlow Museum found that residents believe it should be upgraded to showcase the town's 'rich history'.

Marlow Museum has asked for visitor feedback on its current display space, located in the Peacock Room building outside Court Garden Leisure Centre, and what they would like to see changed or renovated. 

A resounding 90% of those surveyed said that a place like Marlow should definitely have a museum, though a similar 88% thought it deserved to be in a bigger building.

One contributor said: “In such cramped premises it must be very difficult to curate each new themed exhibition in a suitable and engaging manner to draw in tourists and maintain local interest.”

Another concurred, adding: “It needs to be a ‘destination’ when you visit Marlow. When I go to other towns, I always seek out the museum to get some history.”

The museum's current Peacock Room venue is rented from Buckinghamshire Council. The trustee board said they have not yet found a larger premises that is affordable despite the site's modest size restricting the artefacts that can be displayed.

A further 66% of residents said they thought the museum should also have a refit to make it more attractive.

One person said: “Due to the small space, several of the windows have been blocked out in order to give more display space. I am certain a larger space with more adequate lighting would provide many more opportunities for themed exhibitions."

Another suggested that Marlow Town Council should provide funding for the museum. They wrote: 

“Marlow possesses a rich history. With the best will in the world, this cannot be accommodated as a permanent feature within the existing space.

“I believe fresh approaches need to be made with a view to the museum receiving council funding on an annual basis. It is ludicrous that this cultural-historic asset to the town is being overlooked.”

Trustees said they are planning to give the museum a makeover and are grateful for the community support.

They also responded to the 69% of contributors who said Marlow Museum should be open more often by sharing that opening hours are restricted by the limited number of volunteers available. Those wishing to put themselves forward as volunteer stewards can email contact@marlowmuseum.org.

The winner of a prize draw associated with the survey was resident Louisa Brammer, who won two tickets to Pub in the Park, generously donated by Tom Kerridge and Brand Events.