Leather museum set for town centre switch
Controversial plans to relocate Walsall’s leather museum are set to go-ahead, after the authority confirmed the purchase of a replacement building.
At a meeting earlier this month, Walsall Council’s cabinet decided to press on with plans to move the collection, which celebrates the town’s heritage as a leather and saddle-making centre – despite demands from campaigners for a full public consultation on the proposals.
The scheme was first given the green light in September, but a 3000-strong petition from campaigners forced the authority to revisit the proposals in January.
The site is part of a 19th century leather factory, which opponents of the scheme say is a “cherished community asset”, adding that the culture and the history of the site would be lost in relocation plans.
In an update, the authority confirmed the existing museum on Littleton Street West will close on 11 April, before being converted into a centre for adults with special educational needs and disabilities.
A specialist library including around 600 books, trade catalogues and historic photographs documenting the town’s leather industry will be transferred to new premises at 1-3 The Bridge, a former draper’s store which has been snapped up by the authority to house the collection.
“Purchasing this building shows our commitment to Walsall Leather Museum and to showcasing Walsall’s proud leather-making heritage,” said Cllr Gary Flint, culture portfolio-holder for Walsall Council, speaking earlier this month.
“Relocating the museum to the town centre will boost footfall, improve access and visibility, and strengthen links with wider town‑centre regeneration and key cultural assets including The New Art Gallery Walsall and the emerging Creative Industries Enterprise Centre due to open later this year.
“We know some residents may have concerns about the relocation, but we want to reassure them that their museum will continue to play an important role in Walsall’s future.”
Avison Young advised on behalf of Walsall Council in the transaction and Fisher German acted for the building’s owner.
Richard Jones, Director, Retail and Leisure at Avison Young, said: “We’re very pleased to have advised Walsall Council on the acquisition of 1-3 The Bridge, in what will become the new home of an important cultural asset.
“This significant acquisition comes as part of a long-standing relationship between Avison Young and the Council, as we continue to support them in their heritage-led regeneration plans to futureproof the town.
“It’s fantastic to see such a landmark investment in a cultural asset, and we look forward to seeing the plans come to life.”
Charles Warrack, Partner at Fisher German, added: “It’s fantastic to have secured this sale for our client, in line with the council’s regeneration plans. The building has a rich legacy as a former draper’s store, and it’s incredibly fitting that it will now play a role in celebrating Walsall’s history.
“Seeing the property repurposed as the new home of the Walsall Leather Museum is a superb outcome for all parties involved, and ensures the building remains an active and valued part of the town centre, while supporting the council’s commitment to enhancing cultural assets.”
