1.109 According to the Leeds Development Agency the existence of the museum brings a number of benefits for the local economy and community (Figure 17). As the revised deal ensured that the museum would stay open, it also ensured that the local community continues to receive these benefits.
1.110 The revised deal also ensured the survival of the scheme for the redevelopment of Clarence Dock. According to Leeds Metropolitan University's Centre for Urban Development and Environmental Management this scheme will result in a number of benefits for the local economy and community (Figure 18).
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| The benefits to the Royal Armouries arising from the Clarence Dock development |
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| The Royal Armouries benefits from the Clarence Dock development in a number of ways. ■ Additional car parking for visitors to the Armouries ■ 15,000 square feet of further storage space for the collection at a peppercorn rent ■ 12,500 square feet of further expansion space ■ The use of, and all income from, a new exhibition hall from the end of RAI's lease in 2057 or earlier if RAI manages to pay off its debts before this date ■ A potential increase in passing trade as people are attracted to the area by the redeveloped docks Source: National Audit Office ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. |
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| The benefits to the Leeds economy and community arising from the museum |
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| Leeds benefits from the presence of the museum in a number of ways. ■ The museum employs around 200 staff who contribute £7 million to the local economy ■ Tourism generated by the museum contributes around £11 million to the community and supports about 380 jobs ■ Corporate entertainment at the museum introduces many national and international businesses to Leeds, acting as a flagship for inward investment ■ Around 160 local school groups each year enjoy free admissions to the museum ■ The museum is part of the regional museum and visitor attractions network Source: Leeds Development Agency (1999) ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. |
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| The benefits to the Leeds economy and community arising from the Clarence Dock development |
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| By acting as an "anchor tenant" the museum underpins the Clarence Dock development, which will benefit the local economy and community. ■ 2,410 jobs will be directly created in the Clarence Dock area ■ The wages from these people will be passed into the local economy ■ The one million square feet of development will provide £100 million of inward investment ■ The development will deliver significant planning gain under the terms of the planning approval and will underpin the viability of the proposed supertram light rail transport system ■ The local council will benefit from higher council tax and commercial rates receipts Source: Leeds Metropolitan University (1999) |