West Yorkshire economy sees £34m boost from museums

West Yorkshire’s local authority museums ploughed more than £34m into the region’s economy last year, new data shows.

The museums collectively welcomed over 1.7 million visitors in 2017 with attractions ranging from prehistoric creatures to treasures from Ancient Rome and Egypt.

Art galleries in the region, meanwhile, showcase the work of some of the world’s most famous painters, including Moore and Lowry in Huddersfield and Hockney in Bradford.

Other attractions contributing to the nine-figure economic boost include historic houses and country estates, ruined monasteries, castles and parkland walks.

Leeds City Council Leader Cllr Judith Blake said: “When we think of our local museums and galleries, we should never forget what great cultural assets we have on our doorsteps.

“As well as helping us enjoy more fulfilling lives, and making Leeds and West Yorkshire such a great place to live, our museums and arts play an important and often overlooked role in supporting the regional economy.”

Arts Council England’s area director for the North, Sarah Maxfield, commented: “England has some of the finest regional museums in the world, with extraordinary collections ranging from the earliest prehistory to modern art and science.

“It’s great to see the social and economic benefits West Yorkshire’s museums provide presented in such a creative and lively way in this video.”