Conservative group leader Councillor Adrian Andrew has insisted there is 'nothing to hide' after Walsall councillors voted to disclose several documents within 21 days relating to the Leather Museum's future. The decision came during a heated three-and-a-half-hour meeting where nearly half the time was spent debating the museum's relocation.
Council Votes to Publish Key Documents
Members approved a motion, amended by the Conservatives, to publish full costs, lease details, and the licence agreement within 21 days. The motion also calls for the release of a £47,550 Walsall Museum Feasibility study that has been withheld from the public, and for costs of reversing last year's cabinet decision to be made public within 21 days of being known.
The original motion was put forward by Reform leader Councillor Elaine Williams and deputy Councillor Nicky Barker. Three amendments were offered by the Conservatives, Walsall Community Independents (WCI), and Councillor Simran Cheema, with the Conservative version ultimately winning the vote.
Debate Over SEND Provision vs. Museum
The controversy stems from a 2025 cabinet decision, approved by Conservative members including Councillor Andrew, to close the museum and lease its Grade II Listed building on Littleton Street West to Walsall College for its SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) provision, currently based at Hawbush Road.
Councillor Andrew argued that the SEND provision would benefit more residents. 'To tie the administration's hands by taking away the potential for that SEND provision would be reprehensible,' he said. However, Councillor Nawaz countered: 'It's a false choice to say that we either choose SEND or the museum. This borough is big enough to do both.'
WCI Motion Backed by All Except Tories
WCI put forward a separate motion calling for Reform to honour its pre-election pledge to do 'everything in its power' to return the museum to its original home. The motion was backed by all members except the seven Conservative councillors present. Council leader Elaine Williams stated that Reform stands by its pledge.
Lead campaigner Lauren Broxton also submitted a question during the session. Councillor Simran Cheema expressed confusion over Reform's motion, questioning why they sought permission instead of 'getting on with the job'.
Andrew Defends Transparency
Councillor Andrew supported the disclosure motion, stating: 'I support this because there's some people out there that think the previous administration have something to hide. Well, when you find it all out, you'll realise there's nothing to hide.' The council now has 21 days to publish the required documents.
