Walsall Leather Museum will remain in its historic home on Littleton Street West after the new Reform cabinet voted to scrap the previous Conservative administration's relocation plans. Councillors received applause from the public as they approved the reversal on July 22, 2026.
Reform Cabinet Reverses Controversial Decision
The former Conservative leadership had pushed through plans to move the museum, first approved in September 2025, despite strong opposition from residents, councillors, and industry professionals. Critics accused the Tories of failing to follow due process and breaching Freedom of Information rules over the matter.
In their election campaign, Reform UK pledged to reopen the museum in its original location, a former leather factory. The new cabinet also approved negotiations to surrender the building's lease with Walsall College for its SEND provision, a lease signed just two days before the local elections.
Public and Political Support for Historic Building
Portfolio holder for culture, health and wellbeing, Councillor Matt Eason, said: “The Leather Museum is about far more than the artefacts it contains. The building itself is a key part of the visitor experience. It provides authenticity, character and a direct connection to the borough’s industrial heritage that would be extremely difficult to recreate elsewhere.”
He added: “The strength of public feeling on this issue has been clear. Many residents have backed campaigns to keep the museum in its historic home. We are also realistic about the challenges involved. A lease has been signed, funding arrangements will need to be reviewed and discussions will be required with Walsall College to find a constructive way forward. However, having weighed those considerations carefully, we believe retaining the Walsall Leather Museum in its historic home is the right long-term decision for the borough.”
Grade II Listed Status Protects Heritage
The building was awarded Grade II listed status earlier in 2026 following an application by the now-deputy leader of the authority, Councillor Nicky Barker. Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Barker said: “I would just like to say that Walsall Leather Museum’s home at Littleton Street West is central to its character. Retaining it there gives us the best opportunity to protect the important part of Walsall’s identity. The report is clear about the legal, financial and practical issues that must be managed. But I believe it is the right approach to safeguard a distinctive heritage asset and take the next steps carefully, transparently and responsibly.”
The decision marks a significant turnaround for the museum, which had faced an uncertain future under the previous administration. The council will now work to resolve the lease with Walsall College and secure funding to ensure the museum's long-term sustainability in its historic home.
