Prince of Wales Theatre Demolition Plans Stalled by United Front

Cannock Chase District Council Full Council Meeting Blocks Theatre Demolition Funds

In a dramatic turn at Cannock Chase District Council’s Full Council meeting, councillors rejected a key recommendation that would have reallocated capital funds for the ongoing Cannock Town Centre Regeneration Programme. The proposal, stemming from the Cabinet meeting on 4 December 2025, sought to adjust budget allocations for works outlined in the associated report, including steps that would enable the demolition of the Prince of Wales Theatre.

Council Leader Steve Thornley urged approval, warning that without the vote to move money between accounts, regeneration efforts across the town centre could grind to a halt. He described forthcoming plans as exciting yet confidential, and insisted that new performing arts provision remained part of the vision for the area.

The inclusion of the Prince of Wales Theatre’s demolition in the regeneration framework has sparked widespread local debate. The historic venue, which closed its doors in 2025, sits near ongoing demolition sites like parts of the former shopping centre. Critics argue the council has demolished significant portions of the town without clear replacement strategies in place. They question the logic of razing buildings before finalising detailed redevelopment plans, comparing it to knocking down a house without knowing what will replace it.

Opposition voices were strong. Conservative Leader Olivia Lyons declared her party would not support the measure due to the theatre’s proposed demolition. Green councillors expressed frustration over the lack of transparent information, noting that only the leader appeared privy to the full details and questioning why members were expected to vote on vague assurances rather than concrete proposals.

In the vote, the 15 Labour councillors backed the recommendation, but they were outmatched by a united opposition. Conservatives, Greens, and Reform UK councillors combined for 16 votes against, defeating the proposal. Note that these figures were counted independently by observers present, so the exact numbers may not align perfectly with official records. As a result, the funding shift was not approved, and any immediate path to demolishing the Prince of Wales Theatre has been paused for the time being.

The decision highlights deep divisions over the future of Cannock’s town centre and its cultural heritage. Residents and campaigners have long voiced concerns about losing the theatre without a guaranteed alternative venue for performing arts.