Walsall Council has reaffirmed its plan to dispose of the historic leather museum building despite months of campaigning from residents and industry figures.
On Wednesday September 24 cabinet members approved a proposal to buy a new property in the town centre to house the museum.
The current building on Littleton Street West will be handed over to Walsall College which plans to expand its special educational needs at the site.
The decision follows months of uncertainty. Local campaigners have expressed frustration at the way the process has been handled. Designer and educator Lauren Broxton who has been at the forefront of the campaign posted on LinkedIn:
“Yesterday I was lost for words. Today I am angry. Which summarises the extensive local feeling here in Walsall right now. Yesterday it was announced that council committee will meet to sign off on plans that secure the fate of the leather museum. 6 months of hard tireless campaigning 6 months of meeting with council executives for 24 hours notice. We were not told of this. No plans have been shared.”
Lauren Broxton, Designer & Educator
Broxton highlighted that more than 6,000 people signed a global petition including thousands from the borough.
Industry leaders, academics and conservationists also raised objections to the proposed move saying the building is as significant as the collection it holds.
Despite these appeals the council is pressing ahead. Residents and campaigners say they will continue to monitor and challenge the process.
The relocation of the museum is seen by the council as part of its broader regeneration plans but for many in Walsall it marks the loss of a landmark tied to the town’s identity.
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