The future of the Walsall Leather Museum remains under discussion following Walsall Council’s proposal earlier this year to alter the museum's role and possibly relocate it from its current site.
Walsall Leather Museum
The original plans sparked significant public and industry concern, prompting the council to pause its course and engage with stakeholders.
A group comprising representatives from the leather industry and academia has since held two meetings with council officials to outline alternative proposals and raise concerns about the museum’s potential downsizing. Discussions have been described as positive, with the council reportedly open to stakeholder feedback. A formal stakeholder meeting is scheduled for June 23, 2025, to further explore the museum’s future.
One ongoing concern, however, is the council’s lack of clarity regarding its long-term intentions. Informal sources suggest a possible temporary move to a unit within the Saddlers Centre, with an eventual plan to fold the museum into a broader industrial heritage site – potentially reducing the prominence of leather in its exhibitions.
Despite the uncertainty, community interest in the museum remains strong. Recent events, including family craft workshops and history talks by local historian Professor Carl Chinn, have seen record-breaking attendance. A single Easter event in April drew over 700 visitors, with other sessions attracting hundreds more, underscoring the museum’s continuing relevance and appeal.
The stakeholder group has proposed a strategic vision centred on three key pillars: industry, education and community. They argue that the museum is well-positioned to contribute to the leather sector’s evolving sustainability goals, particularly by supporting education in craft-based skills and promoting awareness of leather as a natural, heritage-rich material.
Support from institutions like Birmingham City University’s College of Fashion, Textiles & Jewellery has already been secured, with plans for further partnerships. Proposed activities include live briefs, exhibitions and collaboration with local leather manufacturers and graduate designers.
To support this strategy, a new organisation – Walsall Leather Heritage CIC – has been formed. Led by community members, the CIC aims to collaborate with the council on cultural and heritage initiatives, while seeking independent funding to expand community and industry engagement.
A major public event is planned for September 13, 2025, as part of Walsall MakerFest, to showcase the museum’s ongoing role. The day will feature live leathercraft demonstrations, industry talks and the launch of Birmingham City University’s Bespoke Leather Course Exhibition, followed by an evening industry reception.
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