- 05/06/2019
- Posted by: Valerie Vaz MP
- Category: News
To date 1390 people have signed a Change.org petition to oppose the loss of two staff at Walsall Arboretum.
On Tuesday 4 June 2019 I presented the petition in the House of Commons on behalf of my constituents to ask the Government to urge the Council to consult my constituents about changes to Walsall Arboretum. I support my constituents’ petition to prevent the loss of the onsite posts of Arboretum Manager and Events Co-ordinator. I am concerned that the Council have not consulted my constituents about these changes and any loss of these posts may be in breach of the terms and conditions of the Heritage Lottery funding.
The Arboretum is a well-used asset in the town centre. The onsite team and the activities have ensured a positive experience there. The Council’s own study in 2018 confirmed that it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the West Midlands.
I know my constituents visit the Arboretum which improves their wellbeing and enables them to stay fit. The onsite management team will ensure that children and adults are safe while they enjoy the Arboretum.
You can read my speech in full below:
The petition is from residents of the United Kingdom.
The petitioners are concerned that Walsall MBC’s decision to restructure the Management of Walsall Arboretum in Walsall South was made with no consultation with the public.
The Petitioners say that the changes leaves the Arboretum with no onsite management and no dedicated management team.
The Petitioners say that these changes return the management of the Arboretum to the situation it was in prior to investment by the Heritage Lottery.
The Petitioners note that there is a related petition on this matter on change.org with over 1200 signatures.
The petitioners therefore request the House of Commons urges Walsall MBC to consult the public about the changes and restore the posts of Arboretum Manager and Events Co-ordinator dedicated to ensuring the activities, events, care and maintenance of the Arboretum continue.