A campaign to save Cannock’s Prince of Wales Theatre and Museum has gained over 20,000 signatures. Community groups are working with the council to find solutions for these cherished venues.

The council wants to shut these venues to fix a £1.3 million budget gap. This week, the petitions were presented at a council meeting, showing strong public support.
Councillor Darrell Mawle spoke passionately about the theatre’s importance. He highlighted its role in the community for 40 years, hosting performances and events. It’s a place where local talent shines, and many have fond memories there.
Councillor Andrea Muckley emphasized the museum’s value. It connects people to their heritage and tells the story of Cannock’s mining history. The museum has been a community hub for nearly 40 years, preserving important local history.
Public consultations showed that many people care about these venues. Council leader Tony Johnson is in talks with local groups to explore options for keeping them open. They’re looking for business cases to run the theatre and museum.
The council is even offering expert advice to help these groups. They want to see if government funding can support necessary upgrades. Johnson is optimistic about finding a way to keep these cultural gems alive.
At the meeting, he answered questions from the public about the future of the theatre and museum. There’s a lot of concern about what will happen if they close.
The theatre was set for refurbishment as part of a town center project funded by a £20 million grant. However, it’s facing challenges regarding funding for necessary repairs.
Residents are hopeful that the council will reconsider how to use the funding. They want to ensure the theatre can continue to serve the community for years to come.