Council u-turns on museum relocation following backlash

Walsall Council has backtracked on plans to close the Leather Museum following public outcry over the proposal.

Council leader Garry Perry announced the plan to move the museum to new premises would not go ahead during a cabinet meeting held last week.

The proposal had been criticised by locals and politicians who branded the idea a downgrade for the museum.

Perry said the council had carefully considered feedback and noted the deep significance the museum holds to many people in its current location.

While adding that the relocation plan was “well-intended” and came with the primary aim of securing the museum’s long-term future and broadening its appeal, Perry also acknowledged that “many do not share this view”. 

“I regret that we were unable to convince people that this was the right course of action,” the council leader added.

An online petition against the closure attracted more than 6,000 signatures and a demonstration took place last Saturday (15 February).

Lauren Broxton, who organised the demonstration, told the BBC 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 added.

“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.”