Council backtracks on plans to close museum

The Leather Museum opened in 1988

Plans to close a museum and relocate its collections have been scrapped following a public backlash.

Walsall Council had said The Leather Museum was not getting enough visitors and it was considering moving it to a more central location.

But at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, leader of the council Garry Perry announced the move from Littleton Street West would not go ahead.

"We have carefully considered the feedback, and the museum holds a deep significance for many people, not least those involved in Walsall's historic leather industry," he said.

A demonstration against the plans took place outside the museum at the weekend

The museum, which opened in 1988, is housed in a Victorian building that was once a leather factory.

An online petition against the closure attracted more than 6,000 signatures, and on Saturday a demonstration took place.

The petition's organiser Claire Taylor, said: "The museum represents more than just a building; it is a meeting place, an educational resource, and a symbol of our unique leather-working heritage."

Leader of Walsall Council Garry Perry said the museum would be staying in its current location

Mr Perry told the cabinet meeting the relocation plan was "well-intended".

"[It had] the primary aim of securing its long-term future and broadening its appeal against a backdrop of significant financial subsidy and reducing visitor numbers," he said.

"However, we recognise that many do not share this view, and I regret that we were unable to convince people that this was the right course of action.

"Walsall Leather Museum is an important part of our town's identity.

"While we remain committed to securing a sustainable future for Walsall's heritage, we acknowledge that any changes must be made in collaboration with those who care most deeply about it."

Lauren Broxton organised Saturday's protest against the closure

Lauren Broxton, who organised Saturday's demonstration, said she was "blown away" by the decision to keep the museum in its current location.

"We're absolutely elated, we're so happy that the council has listened," she said.

"The building is the museum, it's as much a part of the experience as the collections.

"The whole point of the museum being in that factory setting matches the humble, quiet pride of Black Country people. It's really very unique."