12:19pm Tuesday 30th June 2009
By Ian Mason
Following in the footsteps of Richmond and Bushy Park, Kew’s National Archives could soon be charging visitors for parking.
In addition to daily car park fees, bosses at the archives announced today they were considering closing the Kew reading room to users on Mondays to reduce running costs.
The proposals, which will be discussed at two public meetings, are part of a move to bolster finances in response to the growth in demand from online customers, who now account for more than 90 per cent of the centre’s usage.
More than 170 documents are now downloaded for every one original document seen by a visitor to the reading rooms.
Chief executive at the archives, Natalie Ceeney said: “The demand for our services is increasing significantly and so we need to make choices.
“We are committed to maintaining quality, and will continue to offer great on-site and online services while adapting to our customer needs.
“We believe this approach will keep the National Archives world-class and will continue to secure access to our unique collection for generations to come.”
Staff and trade unions were informed of the details on Monday and will now enter into consultation over the next couple of months.
Two public meetings to discuss the proposals are due to be held this Thursday at 12.15pm and on Saturday, July 11, at 10am in the Talks Room, First Floor Reading Room.
Bosses expect the changes will be implemented from early September 2009.
What do you think of the proposals? Email rtt@london.newsquest.co.uk or leave a comment below.
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