Wareham Town Council secures former Natwest Bank at 2 North Street in major boost for museum and town centre
Wareham, Dorset – 2 March 2026
New milestone marks major boost for museum and town centre
Wareham Town Council has completed the purchase of the former NatWest Bank building at 2 North Street, marking a significant milestone for Wareham.
The acquisition secures a prominent town centre site and enables long-planned proposals to expand Wareham Town Museum, create a dedicated Tourist Information Centre, and improve educational facilities linked to the museum’s work.
With the purchase now complete, the Council will move forward with detailed development planning and major funding applications, including to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and other grant providers.
Investing in Wareham’s future
Cllr Zoe Gover, Mayor of Wareham Town Council, said:
“We are delighted to confirm that the purchase of the former NatWest building at 2 North Street has now been completed. This is a significant milestone for Wareham and the result of careful planning and determination. Securing this building gives us the space and certainty we need to move forward with expanding the museum, creating a dedicated Tourist Information Centre and improving educational facilities. It is a practical investment in Wareham’s future and in the long-term vitality of our town centre.”
The expanded museum will allow greater exhibition space, improved visitor facilities and enhanced opportunities for learning and community engagement.
Nicola Gray, Town Clerk & RFO, added:
“Securing 2 North Street is a major step forward for Wareham. It will give the Town Museum the space it needs to properly tell the story of one of England’s most important Saxon towns, while also embracing its new role as the recognised national centre for T. E. Lawrence following the transfer of the T.E. Lawrence Society Collection from Oxford. This purchase opens the door to improved educational facilities, better visitor services and a dedicated Tourist Information Centre. It means more opportunities for local schools, more reasons for visitors to stay longer in Wareham, and greater support for our local businesses. Most importantly, it keeps the town’s history firmly rooted within the community.”
Next steps
The next phase of the project will focus on securing external funding and progressing detailed design work. Further updates will be shared as plans develop.
More information about the project can be found at:
https://www.wareham-tc.gov.uk/
Further information...
Read about our previous news story about the new museum project.
Or you can find out about the current Wareham Town Museum (located on East Street) on their website.
