Closure of 'much loved' Leeds museum 'misguided' councillors told
A consultation has been launched on the potential closure of the Abbey House Museum
Campaigners have called on the council not to close a much loved museum as part of multi-million pound budget cuts.
Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall could be shut down by Leeds City Council, which faces a budget gap of more than ÂŁ100m next financial year.
A consultation has been launched on the potential closure, would save the authority ÂŁ160,000.
Members of the Friends of Leeds City Museums spoke against the proposal at a full council meeting on Wednesday (January 15).
In a deputation to council, chairman John Luxton said: “We are in no doubt that the council, through no fault of its own, is facing a dire financial situation.
“But we believe that closing our much-loved Abbey House Museum is misguided and will cost the council far more than is saved.”
Mr Luxton said cash had been spent on improved toilet and other facilities at the museum. He said: “Was that money down the drain?”
He also said his group offered to pay to help market the museum to attract move visitors. He said: “So far our offer has been refused.”
Dan Cohen, Conservative member for Alwoodley, asked why staff at the museum found out about the potential closure and job losses on Facebook and not from an official announcement.
Salma Arif, executive member for culture, said she was disappointed some staff found out that way.
Coun Arif, Labour member for Gipton and Harehills, said: “I am extremely sorry to those staff members who only found out belatedly about the potential closure.
“Staff should not have been put in this position.
“This proposal has not been taken lightly. Can I also stress that no final decision has been made.”
Job losses, a council tax rise and building closures are also being considered by the council is it seeks to set a balanced budget.