Fees are set to rise at Brighton's Royal Pavilion despite a slump in visitor numbers.

Culture councillor Ian Duncan is being recommended to approve a six per cent increase from April to maintain Brighton and Hove Council's income level.

This will raise the entry fee for adults from £4.90 to £5.20 and for children from £3 to £3.20.

Visitor numbers at the Pavilion have dropped by nine per cent in the last year, though this is in keeping with national and regional trends.

National Trust admissions are generally down by 12 per cent and Fishbourne Roman Palace, near Chichester, has seen an eight per cent decline.

One factor is a fall in the number of overseas visitors, caused by the strong pound.

A report says that even with the six per cent increase - twice the inflation rate - the Pavilion will represent good value for money.

The admission fee will be less than for many other historic buildings, such as Charleston Manor near Lewes (£5.50), Petworth House (£6) and Leeds Castle in Kent (£9.50).

But the report warns: "Unlike these historic attractions which are in out-of-town locations, the Royal Pavilion, in the town centre, is subject to competition from other leisure activities such as shopping, cinemas and the pier.

"Admissions need to be priced sensitively so that the Pavilion remains competitive within Brighton."

Charges for entering Preston Manor will rise by three per cent, bringing the adult admission charge to £3.30 from £3.20.

Most charges at Brighton and Hove libraries will remain unchanged in the next financial year.

But video loan fees will go down to encourage greater use of this service and no charge will be made for access to the Internet.