Beaulieu's National Motor Museum: Battle to keep popular attraction in Hampshire as it contemplates a move to Bournemouth
Bid to keep popular motor museum in Hampshire
A popular Hampshire attraction that has drawn visitors for decades could be at the centre of a battle to keep it in the county.
A councillor has voiced disappointment at the prospect of the National Motor Museum leaving Beaulieu, after Bournemouth put itself forward as a potential future home for the attraction.
Cllr Derek Tipp, New Forest District Council’s (NFDC) portfolio holder for planning and economy, said the museum had been at the heart of the New Forest’s tourism industry for generations.
He said: “The council was disappointed when the news was released of the changes at the Beaulieu Motor Museum, and I’m sure any part of the country would be interested in becoming the new home of the National Motor Museum Trust.
“However, it is good news that Lord Montagu has indicated that Beaulieu would continue to operate as a motor museum and hold its motoring events in the future.
“A commitment like this will continue to bring so much benefit to the economy of NFDC.”
Cllr Tipp added: “Currently this is a matter between the Trust and the Beaulieu Estate, but the council will be on hand to provide any support or advice if required.”
His comments come after Bournemouth Town Council backed a proposal to explore bringing the National Motor Museum to Dorset once its lease at Beaulieu expires.
The proposal, put forward by Cllr Mark Anderson, was approved at a council meeting on September 24.
The town council will now begin discussions with key partners, including BCP Council, tourism organisations, businesses and landowners, to gauge support for attracting the museum to the area.
The National Motor Museum Trust announced in August that it was seeking a new home for the museum. The Trust said relocating from Beaulieu would best serve its future growth and development when its current lease ends.
Its collection includes historic vehicles ranging from early motorised carriages and land speed record breakers to famous cars featured in television and film.
Lord Montagu has previously indicated that Beaulieu would continue operating as a motor museum destination and host motoring events even if the National Motor Museum collection ultimately moves elsewhere.