By John Baron
More than 200 people have signed a petition against Leeds City Council’s proposals to close Abbey House Museum due to budget cuts.
The Change.org petition has garnered the signatures since it was launched yesterday, showing the strength of local opposition to council’s proposal to close the museum in Kirkstall as part of its 2025/26 budget.
Stuart Long, who started the petition, writes: “As a resident affected deeply by the potential closure of the Abbey Museum, I cannot stand by while the Leeds City Council plans to close a piece of our city’s rich history.
“As we know, the Abbey Museum is not just a building; it is a historical landmark and a valuable resource to the people of Leeds. It serves as an educational hub, a place where history is not only preserved but also brought to life.”
Martyn Bull, a supporter of Stuart’s petition, added: “I live in Kirkstall and I am strongly opposed to the Council selling off historic assets to help plug their shortfall in funding. Both Conservative and Labour governments are responsible for this.”
Andy Sykes added: “I signed this petition because the Abbey House Museum holds deep personal significance for my family.
“My mum began her career in museums there, and its unique exhibits and educational value have inspired generations. Closing it would mean losing a vital cultural and historical resource for Leeds and beyond.”
Peter Allison added: “The culling of public and historical buildings needs to stop. Stop the vanity projects and focus on what is already here and needs to be preserved.”
The petition can be found here Change.org/DownAbbeyMuseum.
Background
Leeds City Council is proposing to close Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall as it faces unprecedented strain on its finance
Job losses, building closures and a council tax rise of almost five per cent are also being considered by the authority.
Latest figures show the council needs to save £106.4m during 2025/26 to avoid having it declare itself bankrupt. The council already had to save almost £64m in the current financial year. The Abbey House museum closure could save £160,000.
The council faces rising costs while central Government support of council’s has decreased over the past 14 years.
Follow WLD‘s ongoing coverage of Abbey House Museum here.
WLD Cutswatch
WLD is following ongoing council cuts, closures and building sales in our Cutswatch series of articles.