Museums and galleries provide £47.3m boost to city

The popularity of council-run museums and galleries in one of West Yorkshire's busiest cities has brought the city a financial boost of £47.3m over the past year, says a new report.

The economic impact report, compiled by Leeds Museums and Galleries, said the eight sites - run by Leeds City Council - have welcomed 939,494 visitors over 12 months.

Among their recent exhibitions are a celebration of children's character Miffy at Leeds City Museum, and Peter Mitchell: Nothing Lasts Forever at Leeds Art Gallery, showcasing the work of the documentary photographer.

Councillor Salma Arif said the annual "economic impact" provided by exhibitions at the institutions makes a "huge difference" to Leeds.

"The fact our museums and galleries have managed to achieve so much against such a uniquely challenging climate for the sector, and for local authorities, really does speak volumes about the exceptional work which goes into creating a visitor offer that's exciting, innovative, and appealing.

"The economic impact these wonderful attractions have unquestionably makes a huge difference to the city each and every year, but just as important is the social value our sites have.

"Giving people of all ages the chance to engage with history, heritage, art and the natural world in a multitude of different ways, supporting education, combating social isolation, and raising the city's profile as a national and international cultural destination."

Against an annual budget of approximately £5m, the report calculates that every £1 invested in Leeds' museums and galleries generates £9 for the local economy.

The council said the figures were calculated using factors such as overall spend on and off sites, employment impact, and spend on local goods and services.

Leeds Museums and Galleries operates eight sites: Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, Temple Newsam House, Lotherton Hall, Abbey House Museum, Kirkstall Abbey, Leeds Industrial Museum and the Leeds Discovery Centre.

The report also documented the social impact these cultural institutions have, with 105,501 children and adults taking part in family activities, 46,349 school pupils visiting, as well as 38,855 visits from vulnerable adults and young adults.

In addition, those who successfully applied for grant-funding, contributed £2,394,855 to city coffers, and the use of local services supported 100 external jobs worth £3.3m.

The news follows the recent launch of a contactless Give What Your Can entrance model at Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, Kirkstall Abbey and Leeds Discovery Centre, asking visitors to pay a voluntary fee to help support the upkeep of attractions.

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