The Brontë Birthplace Limited held its first Annual Members’ Meeting (AMM) on Saturday, 28th September 2024, marking a significant step forward in the restoration and reopening of the historic Brontë family home. Attended by shareholders both in-person and via Zoom, the meeting showcased key progress and exciting future plans.
The newly elected committee, chosen by over 600 shareholders, is dedicated to continuing the work towards opening the Brontë Birthplace to the public in March/April 2025.
Plans include opening the ground floor as a café and visitor hub, which will also serve as an educational space for school visits and as a venue for local businesses and community groups.
Additionally, one of the upstairs rooms will be restored and furnished in the style of one of the Brontë sisters, and available for Airbnb bookings, with plans to finish two more rooms for the same purpose.
“This is an exciting time for the Brontë Birthplace,” said Steve Stanworth, Vice Chair of the Committee. “We’ve made incredible progress and we’re on track to meet our goal.
Not only will the visitor experience bring the Brontë legacy to life, but it will also help regenerate Market Street in Thornton. We believe this little terrace house will play a huge part in revitalising the community.”
During the meeting, financial reports were presented, and proposals were voted upon. Thornton Community Centre provided volunteers, St James’s Church hosted the event and Matt Gibbons Photography captured the day.
Honouring Our Former Committee Members
We’d like to extend our deepest thanks to our former committee members for their hard work, dedication and invaluable contributions. Your efforts have laid the foundation for everything we’ve achieved so far. This isn’t a goodbye but rather the start of a new chapter, where we know you’ll continue to support the growth and success of the Brontë Birthplace project in other meaningful ways. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!
Sarah Dixon
Sue Hayton
Christa Ackroyd
