Published: Friday, 29th November 2024
The consultation on the future of culture and heritage services in Cannock Chase is now open. This follows a decision by the Council's Cabinet yesterday to invite residents to share their views on the district’s culture and heritage offer.
The consultation comes in response to proposals to close the Museum of Cannock Chase and the Prince of Wales Theatre.
The Council is facing a £1.3m budget shortfall for the 2025/26 financial year, on a net budget of £16.3m. Closing the museum and theatre could save the Council over £350,000 annually, which would help protect other essential services. However, the Cabinet is committed to gathering the views of residents before making any final decisions.
Leader of the Council, Tony Johnson, said that this is the hardest decision he’s had to make in 23 years as a councillor and emphasised the importance of resident participation in the consultation. He said, “Completing the survey is crucial because your feedback will help shape the future of our cultural and heritage offer. We are a listening Council and open to exploring alternatives that will meet the needs of the community.”
The full report on the ‘Review of Leisure, Culture and Heritage Provision’ can be found from the council’s website here: https://www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/council/meetings/agendas-reports-minutes/cabinet/2024-11-28
To have your say in the future provision of culture and heritage in the district complete the survey via our website here: www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/shapingculture
The consultation will close on 2 January 2025.