Leeds City Council is considering introducing a pay-as-you-feel admission scheme at its museums and galleries as part of a series of cost-saving measures.
The council is facing rising social care costs and increasing demands on its services, prompting the proposal to generate revenue while ensuring access to cultural resources.
Currently, venues like the Leeds City Museum and Leeds Art Gallery do not charge an entry fee, although other council-owned sites in the city do.
The council is exploring the possibility of a flexible pay structure, where visitors can contribute what they feel their experience is worth.
Visitors to these venues have shared their views on the potential scheme.
Paul Madden, a tour bus operator from Ireland, said he would be willing to pay an entrance fee, believing £5 would be a “nominal and fair” charge for the experience.
He compared the museum visit to other paid activities, such as attending football matches, where he expects to pay much more.
Victoria Olatungi, a 27-year-old visitor, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that £5 to £10 would be reasonable.
She noted that people often pay for leisure activities like movies, and the museum offers a similarly valuable experience.
On the other hand, Eddie Myers, a former Leeds resident, expressed support for the pay-as-you-feel model, provided it remained optional.
He argued that a mandatory fee could limit access, particularly for young people and the unemployed, who may struggle with the cost.
He emphasized the importance of museums as public resources and cultural landmarks.
Rachael Howarth, a visitor from Castleford, also backed the idea of pay-as-you-feel, acknowledging that arts funding is often insufficient.
She suggested that such a system could help raise funds from those who can afford to contribute, without excluding those who cannot.
However, some visitors were less certain.
Callum, a visitor who declined to give his full name, raised concerns about the high prices in the museum gift shop, questioning whether a pay-as-you-feel scheme could be sustainable.
The proposal is part of the council’s strategy to address a £106.4 million savings requirement for the upcoming financial year.
In addition to the pay-as-you-feel option, the council is considering the closure of Abbey House Museum and anticipates further savings requirements in the coming years.
The council’s executive board will review the proposal on 11 December, with decisions on the future of local museums and galleries to follow.
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