Cannock Chase Conservative council leader condemns 'railroaded' decision over Prince of Wales Theatre
Cannock Chase Conservative councillors have criticised the Labour administration’s handling of plans for the Prince of Wales Theatre, accusing it of forcing through demolition plans without proper scrutiny and against overwhelming public opposition.
The dispute came to a head at January’s full council meeting, where councillors voted on changes to the capital programme for Cannock town centre regeneration.
Labour-led Cannock Chase Council's cabinet brought forward a single recommendation which, if approved, would have enabled funding to progress plans that include the demolition of the theatre. That motion was narrowly defeated by one vote, after Conservative, Green Party and Reform UK councillors opposed the proposals, citing concerns over the future of the theatre and the lack of consultation with residents.
Conservative group leader Councillor Olivia Lyons said councillors were being asked to approve “irreversible political decisions” under the guise of a technical update.
“These were not minor administrative changes,” she said. “They included the demolition of the Prince of Wales Theatre and the preparation of a business case to relocate the council offices. Decisions of this magnitude demand scrutiny, evidence and honesty.”
