Petition to save two iconic buildings reaches 10k in one day

A petition that was launched only a day ago has already reached 10,000 supporters as Cannock locals fight to save two of the area's most iconic venues. 

The petition to save the Museum of Cannock Chase and the Cannock's Prince of Wales Theatre was launched on Tuesday after it was announced that both sites will potentially close in April 2025. 

The proposal was announced by Cannock Chase Council as part of their efforts to close a £1.5 million budget cap for the years of 2025/26.

The announcement sparked outrage from Cannock residents, with many saying that it would be the "final nail in the coffin" for culture and history in Cannock. 

In response to the proposed closure, a Change.org petition was quickly started by campaigners, rapidly gaining over 10,000 supports in one day. 

The petition description read: "On Thursday 28th November 2024, Cannock Chase District Council are proposing to the Cabinet to Close the Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock. Along with The Museum of Cannock Chase, killing all culture services within the Cannock District and to audiences who travel from further afield into the district. 

"The Prince of Wales Theatre has been a long standing, successful and loved venue within Cannock Town Centre for 40 years and is visited by over 70,000 people a year which includes audience members, performers which includes professional artistes, local amateur dramatics groups, musicians, children's performing arts schools, dance schools and local educational establishments, not to mention the wonderful volunteers who have given their time for years of dedication to the venue, and the staff who are all now facing redundancies.

"If you wish to show your support to saving a place that is not only loved, but is so many peoples life, please attend the Cabinet Meeting on Thursday 28th November 2024, 6pm at Cannock Council Chambers, Civic Centre. Subsequently please attend any public consultations for which we will do our best to ensure the dates are shared publicly, along side any protests or further activities in support of keeping our favourite theatre open."

In the proposal, it was announced that both sites would go through a four-week consultation period, which will start on Friday, where it will be decided then if the two locations will close next year.

Deborah Parry-Clarke, one signer of the petition, wrote: "Angry is not the word! I am absolutely appalled! Yet another kick in the teeth for the arts and our local heritage and culture! 

"These decision-making idiots have not one iota of respect, nor pride in the locality that they have been elected to  ‘do the best for!’ Totally clueless!!!"

Many residents said the two venues are vital to the area, with both bringing a level of culture and history to the region. 

Claire Oatley, a regular performer at the Prince of Wales Theatre, said: "I perform at the theatre regularly as part of a local amateur group. 

"It is a vital community amenity which brings pleasure to many who cannot travel to or afford to see shows at larger regional theatres."

If the council decide to close both venues, the two locations may close as early as April 2025. A cabinet meeting regarding the potential closure is to be held at the Cannock Council Chambers, Civic Centre, at 6pm on Thursday.

More information and ways to sign can be found on the Change.org website.