Avison Young and Fisher German oversee acquisition of new home for Walsall Leather Museum

Global real estate advisor Avison Young and property consultants Fisher German have played a pivotal role in finding a new home for the historically important Walsall Leather Museum after successfully overseeing the acquisition of 1-3 The Bridge in the town.

The building is set to become the new home of the museum after Walsall Council decided to relocate it from Littleton West Street as part of the authority’s wider heritage regeneration plans for the town centre.

Avison Young advised on behalf of Walsall Council in the transaction and Fisher German acted for the building’s owner.

Located between Walsall High Street and the Walsall Leather Skills Centre, 1-3 The Bridge, which was originally a draper's store, features a prominent corner frontage, full-height windows and an open-plan layout. The decision was made to relocate the museum following a study which concluded that a move could increase accessibility and drive higher visitor numbers.

Avison Young’s support on the acquisition of 1-3 The Bridge is a continuation of the relationship between the firm and Walsall Council, driving forward its regeneration vision for the area. Avison Young also advised on the purchase of The Guildhall, a Grade II-listed landmark which will become the town’s creative hub, as well as Bloxwich Launchpad.

The relocation of the Leather Museum reaffirms the council’s commitment to Walsall’s leather-making heritage. The current museum, located at Littleton Street West, will close on 11 April 2026 and will be re-established as a prominent town centre landmark.

Richard Jones, Director, Retail and Leisure at Avison Young, said:

“We’re very pleased to have advised Walsall Council on the acquisition of 1-3 The Bridge, in what will become the new home of an important cultural asset. This significant acquisition comes as part of a long-standing relationship between Avison Young and the Council, as we continue to support them in their heritage-led regeneration plans to futureproof the town.

“It’s fantastic to see such a landmark investment in a cultural asset, and we look forward to seeing the plans come to life.”

Charles Warrack, Partner at Fisher German, added:

“It's fantastic to have secured this sale for our client, in line with the council’s regeneration plans. The building has a rich legacy as a former draper’s store, and it’s incredibly fitting that it will now play a role in celebrating Walsall’s history.

“Seeing the property repurposed as the new home of the Walsall Leather Museum is a superb outcome for all parties involved, and ensures the building remains an active and valued part of the town centre, while supporting the council’s commitment to enhancing cultural assets.”