A ‘friends’ group working to save an Aire Valley museum from closure will officially be formed this week.
Bradford Council withdrew £23,000 to run the Bracken Hall Countryside Centre in its last budget, leading to fears of its permanent closure.
But work has been ongoing to transfer ownership to Baildon Parish Council with the Friends Bracken Hall established to run it.
Parish Council members will meet officers from Bradford Council today  to discuss issues such as the management of the actual building, on the edge of Shipley Glen in Baildon, and a lease agreement.
Councillor Ashton said: “Other elements of the proposal are falling into place and offers of help from volunteers are continuing. Various organisations and individuals have expressed an interest in running events in, or from, the centre. In view of this interest, the parish council is holding an open public meeting on Tuesday.
“The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss people's ideas for the future development of the centre.”
Coun Ashton said following an initial meeting about saving the museum last month he had received many emails of support.
Following Tuesday’s public meeting there will be an inaugural general meeting to formally establish the Friends of Bracken Hall. The Friends group will be independent of the parish council and its future activities will be determined by its members.
Coun Ashton said: “It is too early to guarantee the future of Bracken Hall as a Countryside Centre, but the signs are promising.”
Bracken Hall Countryside Centre, in Glen Road, has exhibits showing the natural history and archaeology of the area and a small classroom for school visits.
Baildon Parish Council has discussed opening the toilets for public use and serving refreshments to help pay for its running.
The public meeting is on Tuesday at 7pm at Baildon Community Link in Cliffe Avenue, Baildon.