The MP for Walsall and Bloxwich has called on Walsall Council to ‘think again’ over its decision to sell the leather museum building.
Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Valerie Vaz criticised the council for ‘destroying the cultural heritage of Walsall’ while the ‘public are left in the dark’.
The comments followed a meeting on September 24 where cabinet members were asked to approve the disposal of the leather museum.
The proposal included leasing the existing museum building on Littleton Street West to Walsall College, and the purchase of a new town centre building to house the contents of the museum.
The decision means that Walsall College can move its special educational needs and disability provision from its Hawbush campus in Leamore to the current site of the Walsall Leather Museum.
The Labour MP said the council’s decision to use the leather museum building for the college’s SEND provision was a ‘form of moral blackmail that serves no-one’s interest’.
She said: “Walsall Leather Museum is the top attraction on TripAdvisor, attracting international visitors and receiving a ‘Travellers’ Choice’ award in 2024.
“A petition against any sale, closure or relocation of the Museum attracted 6491 signatures and hundreds of people attended a demonstration and march on 8 February 2025 to oppose the closure.
“The cabinet announced on 12 February 2025 that Walsall Leather Museum will remain open in its current location to allow them to meet with stakeholders, deferring any decision until 2026.
“The report makes vague references to ‘conversations’ with community, business and education about a better museum offer elsewhere but the public and elected representatives are being left in the dark.
“Walsall’s heritage clearly is not a priority for this conservative council and to present the Leather Museum’s closure and important SEND provision as an either/or option is a form of moral blackmail that serves no-one’s interest.
“The council must think again and do what is best for the people of Walsall and to attract more visitors.”
Deputy leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Adrian Andrew, said while it’s been a difficult decision, the council is committed to relocating the museum.
He said: “This move will provide much needed central provision for local SEND students, delivering an increased offer in a supported environment and improving lives.
“It has been a difficult decision to make, but we are committed to relocating Walsall Leather Museum to a more prominent and accessible location within Walsall town centre.
“There is a need to increase footfall and improve its offer, so it provides value for money and better represents the history and heritage of our borough. This will enhance the visitor experience and maximise the advantages of ongoing town centre regeneration.
“Like all councils, Walsall faces significant financial challenges. It is therefore essential that we maximise the value and impact of every pound we spend, ensuring that all expenditure delivers the greatest possible benefit for our residents and communities.
“By providing a new location for it, we will ensure we have a museum in a more central location in the town centre.”
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