Council submits controversial leather museum plans

Plans have been submitted to convert a museum into special needs facilities for college students.

Walsall Council announced in September 2025 that the artefacts from the town's Leather Museum would be "reprovided" in another, yet to be disclosed, town centre building as part of regeneration plans.

The existing building on Littleton Street West is part of a historic Victorian factory complex and has been displaying artefacts since it opened in 1988.

Councillor Adrian Andrew confirmed in October that taxpayers' money had already been allocated from the government's Community Regeneration Partnership fund for the conversion.

A petition was launched in November to keep the museum at its current location, so far attracting 3,300 signatures.

Despite the opposition, the council is pressing on with its plans to move the special educational needs offering from Walsall College's Hawbush site into the museum building.

The changes do not require full planning permission since the current activities at the Leather Museum and the proposed educational facility fall within the same planning class.

Instead, the application seeks a certificate of lawfulness – confirmation that the works are covered by permitted development.

As part of the application, Walsall College has written a letter in support.

It highlights the benefits of the outdoor space and proximity to the college's Wisemore Campus, meaning SEND students can access drama and teaching kitchens.

It adds nearby transport links encourage students' independence.

The council has set a target date for a decision to be made next month.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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