Safeguard for Brixham museum

The attraction has been open for nearly 50 years

Brixham’s treasured town centre museum is to be given another five years of protection from unwanted development. 

The museum, housed in a former police station at Bolton Cross, was listed as an Asset of Community Value five years ago. That listing, which means the people of the town can bid to take it on if Torbay Council ever decides to dispose of it, expired earlier this year.

Now the council is set to renew it.

The free-entry museum has been operating in the old ‘cop shop’ for fifty years and is run mainly by volunteers. It highlights the port’s Neolithic past and details its important position in Britain’s fishing industry.

There is also a reconstructed Victorian parlour and nursery along with 10,000 objects including fishing nets, boats and maritime models.

The council says that if it re-lists the museum for another five years – a decision likely to pass through cabinet next week (July 14) – it will empower the community to safeguard the building until 2030 at least.

A report to the committee says: “The museum preserves local heritage and supports learning. It further enhances the cultural tourism offer and enriches visitor experience to Brixham and the bay.

“It continues to serve as a cultural and educational resource for residents and visitors, justifying its re-listing. The nomination reflects ongoing community interest and support in the museum, which is led by a local charitable organisation and run by dedicated volunteers.”