HAMPSHIRE civic chiefs could abandon centuries of tradition and start charging for entry to the Great Hall.

The 13th century building, home to King Arthur's Round Table, has been in public ownership since 1642 and has always been free to enter.

However, Hampshire County Council leader Ken Thornber is tomorrow due to approve a study on the building's future, including looking at charging visitors.

The report suggests new signage and "branding" be introduced from October 2007 to April 2008 and the review of charging for access and for hire.

A county council spokesman said charging had not definitely been decided. "We are looking at the possibility. We want to encourage more people to come to the hall and to see what more could be done to make it more of an attraction," she said.

The report says the hall could be integrated with the council's revamped Ashburton Court, which is due for completion in spring 2009.

"The new HQ, Castle Avenue, the open spaces adjoining the hall and law courts will create a unique collection of accommodation and space, with significant commercial, artistic and cultural opportunities," the report said.

Every year about 150,000 people visit the Grade I listed building, primarily to see the round table which actually dates not from Arthur's day but from the 13th century.

For the full story read today's Daily Echo