This weekend, supporters will rally in Walsall to oppose the proposed closure of the Leather Museum, a key local attraction facing relocation.
Walsall Council plans to move the museum from its current location on Littleton Street West to another site. They say this is a cost-saving measure as they try to save £28.9 million in their budget for 2025/26.
Details about the new location haven’t been shared yet. The future of the current museum building is also sensitive information.
The final budget will be presented to the cabinet next week on Wednesday, February 12. After that, it will go to the full council for consideration on February 26.
Lauren Broxton, a fashion designer and protest organizer, is concerned about the council’s vague plans. She believes the lack of transparency is troubling.
She stated, “If the museum moves, it might close. How can people agree to a move without knowing where it’s going?”
Lauren emphasized that the museum is unique to Walsall and deserves to be celebrated in its current historic location. She believes it should not be split up or put into storage.
She encourages everyone to show support, saying, “Leather is a big part of Walsall’s history. Join us for a peaceful day with many creatives from the leather community. Let’s protect our heritage!”
Protesters will meet at noon on Saturday, February 8, at the Sister Dora statue outside Lloyds Bank. They will then walk through the town to the Walsall Leather Museum.
