Agenda item

To consider the report of the Executive Director, Environment.

The Committee considered the report of the Executive Director, Environment setting out the proposed fees and charges at Keats House in 2025/26 including admission to the house, taught learning sessions and private hire rates.

The Committee noted the proposal to increase fees and charges, in general, to reflect growing costs while maintaining Keats House’s reputation as a high-quality visitor attraction, particularly in the year of its celebration of 100 years as a venue open to the public.

Members also noted the request to allocate up to £25k from the Keats House charity’s unrestricted reserves to fund various programmes and initiatives related to the 100^th anniversary of the house opening to the public on 9 May 1925, which will be celebrated throughout 2025.

A Member sought confirmation on the likely impact of the fees increases to ensure ongoing viability. The meeting noted that the modelling has been done to ensure that 2025-26 targets are covered, and that the post-pandemic fall in private hire bookings has recovered though not to pre-pandemic levels. 

A Member asked for an update on the performance of the shop at Keats House. The meeting noted that special lines will be introduced into the shop now that the branding has been agreed.

Noting the launch by the Fleet Street BID of the Festival of Words (14-17 May 2025), a Member asked what synergies might be achieved given its proximity in the calendar to the Keats House anniversary. The meeting noted that a meeting has taken place to discuss opportunities to promote Keats House during the event.  

A Member asked for further information on the relationship with the National Trust. The meeting heard that the National Trust partnership stopped being a formal partnership during the pandemic, but Keats House has maintained a relationship with the organisation partly because there is some cross-over with visitors to nearby Fenton House. An overview of various concession agreements is expected.

RESOLVED, That the Committee, collectively acting on behalf of the City of London Corporation as trustee of Keats House and being satisfied that it is in the best interests of the charity to do so:

1. Approve the recommended fees and charges for 2025/26 outlined in the report; and

2. Approve expenditure of up to £25K from the Keats House Charity’s unrestricted reserves to fund activities related to the 100^th anniversary of Keats House opening to the public.