The Times reports that a number of heritage sites may have to close when new laws governing access for disabled people come into force.

The Disability Discrimination Act requires all businesses to adapt their premises to accommodate disabled people, or face court action.

Disability groups insist the new laws should not lead to the closure of organisations.

"We are talking about changes that are reasonable," said Bela Gor, legal expert at the Disability Rights Commission.

"We are not asking providers generating small amounts of money to install lifts costing thousands of pounds, for example."