Leeds Art Gallery closes for 'major repairs' to roof

Leeds Art Gallery is to close for more than a year for "major repairs" to the roof of the Victorian building, said Leeds City Council.

The gallery, founded in 1888, is to shut when the present exhibition ends in January and reopen in spring 2017.

More than 150 paintings and sculptures from its collections are to go on loan including to international venues.

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of the council, said the gallery attracted about 430,000 annual visitors.

"It's time for us to look to the future and focus on how we can ensure visitors can continue to enjoy Leeds Art Gallery's magnificent collection in the years to come."

The closure would allow for "major repairs" to the roof, she added.