Museum Remains Open As Council Budget Settles

AABB Abbey House Museum, situated opposite Kirkstall Abbey, was inaugurated in 1927. A Leeds museum that faced the threat of closure due to council budget proposals has been saved thanks to a passionate public response.

Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall is renowned for its replica Victorian streets and vintage penny slot machines. The Leeds City Council had initiated a consultation on the future of the museum as they attempted to address unprecedented financial pressures, but plans to close it have now been withdrawn.

The budget for next year includes an additional 67m funding; however, the council notes that rising costs, pressure from demand for services, and other factors necessitate saving a total of 103.8m overall.

Based in Kirkstall Abbey’s old gatehouse, the museum features reconstructed Victorian streets. The upcoming budget meeting is scheduled to be held next week by the councils executive board and on 26 February for the full council. It includes an increase in council tax of 4.99% as well as a review of children’s centers and transport services for families.

The proposed changes also include implementing a “pay-as-you-feel” admission charge at Leeds City Museum, Leeds Art Gallery, and Leeds Discovery Centre, with consideration given to charging for entrance into Kirkstall Abbey. Additionally, the council plans to transfer responsibility for running Middleton Leisure Center to a third party.

With an extra 67m of funding available, the proposed 10% cut in neighborhood network funding within Leeds will not be required and no reduction is planned for wellbeing and youth activity budgets.

The museum will remain open as usual. The current exhibition titled Story Time features a wide array of historic books and games that explore childrens stories magical worlds. However, it’s stated by the council spokesperson that further savings are needed and alternative options to secure these funds are being reviewed.