The Maritime Archaeology Trust (MAT) is set to create a major new maritime discovery centre and museum at the former Yarmouth Primary School, following the completion of a long-awaited community-led acquisition.
The Yarmouth Community Foundation CIC has now finalised the purchase of the school site from the Isle of Wight Council. The move follows months of complex legal negotiations involving the Crown Estates and Department for Education, and opens the door to a transformation of the site into a vibrant centre for heritage, research, education and community use.
As part of the project, MAT will relocate the existing Shipwreck Centre and Maritime Museum from Arreton to the former school buildings. The centrepiece of the development will be one of the UK’s largest multi-shipwreck collections, originally established by Martin Woodward in Bembridge in 1978.
The new museum and discovery centre, made possible by support from the Herapath Shenton Trust, the Yarmouth Community Foundation and the late MAT Trustee Valerie Fenwick, will not only preserve but expand public engagement with the Island’s rich maritime past. Exhibits will range from immersive VR experiences to displays on prehistoric submerged landscapes off the coast of the Isle of Wight, including Mesolithic artefacts from Bouldnor Cliff.
Michael Woodhall, Chairperson of MAT, has said:
“The Trustees of MAT are thrilled that after two years of intense and detailed legal negotiations we are now able to proceed with our relocation of the highly acclaimed Shipwreck Centre to Yarmouth. This new facility will promote interest, research and knowledge of maritime archaeology both here in the UK and worldwide.”
Martin Woodward, founder of the Shipwreck Centre, added:
“As sad as the school closure was for Yarmouth, from the moment it went on the market we felt that it was the perfect site to relocate the Centre. This gives us the opportunity to expand and inspire new audiences with the Island’s maritime heritage.”
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The plans include archive and study areas, educational spaces for all ages, a maritime archaeology library, touring exhibitions, and a café and gift shop open to the public. Temporary exhibitions will begin on-site during development to offer a glimpse of what’s to come.
Garry Momber, Director of MAT, has said:
“With huge potential to expand our activities and provide facilities to support our work, the Yarmouth site is an exciting next chapter for the Trust and our work with the community.”
Councillor Ian Stephens, Deputy Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, praised the scheme:
“This is a fantastic example of how a community-led initiative can preserve a much-loved site and turn it into something that will benefit generations to come.”
As part of the wider redevelopment, a portion of land has been retained by the council for affordable housing, with priority to be given to local workers. The Foundation has also earmarked space for Scouts and Guides, helping ensure the site continues to serve Yarmouth families.
Ward councillor Peter Spink said he is committed to ensuring the affordable housing allocation process remains transparent and benefits local people.
To find out more, visit www.maritimearchaeologytrust.org/education-outreach/yarmouth-centre/.
