Local artist performs in protest as Walsall Leather Museum faces ‘shaky future’

Vicky Roden was set to stage the one-hour performance from 2pm today (Saturday) during the town’s MakerFest event.

Last year, Walsall Council had announced plans to move the museum from its current location on Littleton Street West to an unconfirmed council-owned building in the town centre.

The move was supposed to save £190,000 in the 2025/26 budget, but was met with fierce criticism.

Following the backlash, the leader of the council at the time, Garry Perry, removed the proposal from the budget in a victory for campaigners.

In May, Garry Perry resigned as leader, and last month from politics altogether. Now, the authority is led by Councillor Mike Bird.

Vicky has claimed that the council is acting with ‘zero transparency’ around the plans for the much-loved attraction.

The 45-year-old has pledged to do a one-hour performance during the MakerFest, which last year attracted more than 50,000 people into the town centre.

Vicky said: “Back in February, in a magnificent display of people power, we managed to get Walsall Council to listen to the people and halt the planned relocation of Walsall Leather Museum.

“It was something they planned to approve without any details about where it would be moved to.

“However, ‘halt’ is the operative word. Their plan is to review the decision for this coming financial year.

“As yet there has been zero indication from the council about what the process will be, whether there will be any form of public consultation about the relocation, what it will entail or any plans for the future of the museum’s collections.

“This protest aims to raise awareness of the incredibly shaky future of both Walsall Leather Museum and museum services in Walsall, and rally the public into demanding transparency from the council.”

A spokesperson for Walsall Council said: “While we fully respect the right to peaceful protest, it’s disappointing that a protest may occur during MakerFest this Saturday.

“A lot of planning has gone into the event and it will be a fantastic day, with Walsall town centre transformed into a free festival of creativity, ideas and innovation. Everyone is welcome.

“Discussions regarding Walsall Leather Museum are ongoing, and we hope Vicky and all our residents will continue to engage with us.”