Castle and museums boost economy by £15m in a year

Simple Minds performed at the Castle in June

Lincoln Castle and museums boosted the county's economy by £15m last year, according to Lincolnshire County council.

The authority said the castle and other attractions were visited 1.5 million times, and the castle alone had generated £11m.

The council manages the castle, Lincoln Museum and Usher Gallery, The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitor Centre and the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.

Natalie Oliver, councillor for culture, said: "Our cultural attractions do an incredible job of celebrating Lincolnshire's proud heritage."

The authority said live events at the castle and historic artefacts such as the Magna Carta had inspired people to travel to Lincoln.

"Generating £15 million to Lincolnshire's economy is a great achievement," Oliver said.

The council said the economic impact would grow further when Lincoln Museum opens next year, after a £1.7m redevelopment.

"I know lots of people are as excited as I am to see Lincoln Museum re-open next year, with a brand-new gallery inviting visitors to explore our incredible heritage like never before," Oliver said.

The figures form part of a report that will be discussed by councillors at the Children's and Culture Scrutiny Committee in December.

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