ADMISSION charges at one of the region's museums look likely to be increased.

The admission charges for Hartlepool Historic Quay were set in 2000 and have remained the same since.

However, a review of pricing has taken place, and members of Hartlepool Borough Council will be asked to approve new prices when they meet on Friday.

The cost of an adult ticket is £5.50, and this would remain the same.

However, the cost of a child's ticket would increase from £2.75 to £3, and a family ticket would cost £15 rather than the current £14.50.

A report to the meeting said: "Whilst many services apply an inflationary increase every year, the approach taken at the Quay is to apply periodic increases, which are often greater than inflation.

"The approach of freezing prices for longer periods does have benefits, for example, publicity material does not have to be annually changed, and many prices are rounded off for visitor convenience.

"Pressures do build, however, as income levels do not keep up with inflation and therefore, from time to time, prices need to be reviewed.

"The prices are nevertheless considered to still provide excellent value for money and will continue to attract visitors from throughout the country."

Published: 16/12/2003