Clarification follows campaign.
Rumours that Walsall Leather Museum is to close - prompting protest from the leather and saddlery industries - have been quashed.
Walsall Council, which runs the site on the town’s Littleton Street West, now says it will “move not close” the museum.
Walsall Leather Museum opened in 1988 and documents the area’s rich leather and saddlery heritage. It houses thousands of artefacts and provides an education hub.
Concern about its demise was sparked by a proposal in Walsall Council’s draft 2025/26 budget to relocate it to a more central location.
A petition then circulated, reportedly collecting more than 2,000 signatures, opposing the museum’s closure.
The council says that attracting more visitors by moving it closer to the town centre is key to its revised plans for the museum.
It adds that it’s “working on the vision for a new, inclusive, and progressive museum that can better serve the diverse needs of our community.”
Last week, Councillor Garry Perry, Leader of Walsall Council, told ETN “The key thing to say on this topic is the museum will be moved, not closed.
“Contrary to reports, we will not disrespect our history. Rather, our plan will bring the museum to a more prominent and central location for future generations to enjoy.”
Plans for the museum are likely to be confirmed after 26 February when Walsall Council is set to approve its budget. Until then, its future remains under consultation.
