York Museums Trust, responsible for running many attractions across York, have reported that they have lost 70% of their income due to the lockdown measures put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The Trust, responsible for York Castle Museum, York Museum Gardens, York Art Gallery, and the Yorkshire Museum, have closed their doors to the public for three months. The lack of income from visitors, on top of the running costs of their attractions, have left the Trust in a position where they have had to furlough “most of their staff”.
Thankfully, York Museum Gardens are now in a position to reopen their gates to the public on June 25 from 10:30am to 6:30pm. The gardens will be open to the public seven days a week.
A spokesperson for the Trust said that they “are really looking forward to welcoming people back to enjoy the gardens as they come into full summer bloom. We recognise how important the gardens are to York and are keen to support the city as it comes out of lockdown”.
The gardens have been receiving regular maintenance over the lockdown period from the teams who work there, however due to the high costs of maintenance, gardening, and security of the special plants and trees, the Trust has asked anyone who has enjoyed the gardens to consider donating to ensure that they are able to stay open.
To donate, go to: www.yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk
Featured Image Credit to Wikimedia user:Kilnburn