Council cuts place Midlands museum and theatre at risk of closure

Cannock Chase District Council has proposed closing the Museum of Cannock Chase and the Prince of Wales Theatre as part of measures to close a £1.3m shortfall in its 2025/26 budget.

The local authority said its government funding had fallen by millions of pounds in real terms over the past 10 years and that the plans would protect essential frontline services by saving more than £350,000.

The theatre had been due to close for two years from the spring as part of plans to develop a cultural hub for the town. Both buildings need significant expenditure due to their condition according to a draft survey.

Council leader Tony Johnson told the BBC that the decision had been difficult but that alternatives such as introducing taxes “would hit every household, including those already struggling to make ends meet”.

“One of our top priorities is to be a responsible authority that lives within its means and is accountable for its actions.”

“This is especially important to remember when you see other councils across the country effectively going bankrupt and having to shut swimming pools or ask for permission to raise taxes significantly.”