Walsall Council has decided to abandon plans to close The Leather Museum after a significant public backlash. The council had proposed moving the museum to a more central location due to low visitor numbers. However, at a cabinet meeting, Council Leader Garry Perry announced that the move would no longer take place.
“We have carefully considered the feedback, and the museum holds a deep significance for many people, especially those connected to Walsall’s historic leather industry,” Perry said.
The museum, which opened in 1988, is located in a Victorian building that was once home to a leather factory, making the building itself a key part of its heritage.
Public opposition to the closure was strong. An online petition opposing the move gathered over 6,000 signatures, and a demonstration was held on Saturday. Claire Taylor, who organized the petition, emphasized the museum’s cultural importance.
“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,” she said.
Although the council’s initial plan was driven by the desire to secure the museum’s long-term future and increase its appeal, the relocation idea failed to gain support.
Perry acknowledged the plan’s primary aim was to broaden the museum’s reach, especially against a backdrop of declining visitor numbers and financial constraints.
He added, “We recognize 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.”
Saturday’s demonstration organizer, Lauren Broxton, expressed her joy at the council’s decision. “We’re absolutely elated, we’re so happy that the council has listened,” she said.
Broxton highlighted the significance of the museum’s current location, noting, “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.”
