Image: Kirkstall Abbey (Leeds City Council)
Donation points will replace an annual pass system at some council-run sites, aiming to offset “unprecedented financial pressures”
Council-run museums and galleries in Leeds are launching a new donation scheme, replacing annual passes.
This week, four of the council’s eight sites will introduce “Give What You Can” donation points, where visitors can choose to make a contribution.
The contactless donation points will be available at Leeds Art Gallery, Leeds City Museum, and Kirkstall Abbey. Visitors can also donate online to all venues, including the Leeds Discovery Centre.
The new donation model will replace Kirkstall Abbey’s previous annual pass system – which was free for Leeds residents but £6.20 for non-Leeds residents.
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Leeds City Council said the mew model aims to offset “unprecedented financial pressures” faced by the authority.
Any donations received on site will be managed by the Leeds Museums and Galleries Development Trust, a newly-established charity specifically formed to manage fundraising for museums and galleries in Leeds.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “It’s no secret that these are challenging times for both the museums sector and for local authorities, and the financial pressures facing the council mean we are having to explore new ways of funding some of the services we know are so important to the people of Leeds.
“These new donation points will allow visitors to help us do that, giving those that can afford it the opportunity to donate a set amount of their choice whilst also ensuring those who aren’t able to donate can still enjoy the city’s incredible attractions.”
