Leeds City Council has earmarked Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall for closure as part of its measures to deal with “unprecedented” budget issues.
The local community has been up in arms since the announcement was made last year, and a public demonstration took place outside the museum earlier today (Saturday, January 18).
A petition calling on the council to halt the plans has nearly received 5,000 signatures and a consultation where people can submit their comments to the city council remains open until January 23.The authority has previously said that the closure would save it around £160,000 per year.
Here’s 14 of the best pictures as generations of Leeds residents gathered to fight against the closure...
7. Abbey House Museum closure protest
Dianne Riding, an ex-teacher from Adel, said: "I'm down here because I feel so strongly about the fact they may be taking away the museum for generations of children to come." | Steve Riding
8. Abbey House Museum closure protest
Dianne added: "Over the years I must have brought hundreds of children down to time travel through the streets here. They become Victorians and understand the history of the people of Leeds." | Steve Riding
9. Abbey House Museum closure protest
Angela Harrison with her 'Save Our Streets' banner. | Steve Riding
10. Abbey House Museum closure protest
The museum has confirmed via its social media page that it will remain open while demonstrations are held. | Steve Riding
12. Abbey House Museum closure protest
Leeds City Council previously said that the closure would save it around £160,000 per year. | Steve Riding