Working Together for Safer Beaches - North Norfolk District Council and RNLI Build On Successful Partnership

Date published: 6th October 2025

North Norfolk District Council’s Cabinet today approved two measures to build on its successful partnership with the RNLI - a new long-term lease for the Lifeboat Station in Sheringham and works to enable the return of the Henry Blogg Museum to the Rocket House in Cromer.

NNDC has agreed to enter into a new 25-year lease for the Sheringham Lifeboat Station, supporting the RNLI’s intention to invest in substantial building repairs and restart activity from the site.

The station’s operations were temporarily suspended in January 2025 due to concerns about the building’s safety.

Cllr Liz Withington, North Norfolk District Councillor for Sheringham and Portfolio Holder for Community, Leisure and Outreach said:

"The RNLI has always been woven into Sheringham’s story – from generations of local fishermen whose livelihoods depended on safety at sea, to the thousands of visitors who come to enjoy our coast each year.

"This new long-term lease is more than a practical step; it is a recognition of the vital role the lifeboat station and its volunteers continue to play in the life of our town. The RNLI’s presence is part of our social history and part of our community’s future, protecting both residents and visitors. By enabling the station to be rebuilt, we are safeguarding that proud tradition of bravery and service for the next 25 years and beyond."

"In an additional decision, the meeting of NNDC’s Cabinet also approved a programme of damp proof works at the Rocket House in Cromer, addressing ongoing issues with the building.

"NNDC has agreed to enter into discussions with the RNLI about a new lease for part of the Rocket House enabling it to reopen as the home of the Henry Blogg Museum. The works will also improve the building’s energy performance in line with the Council’s sustainability objectives.

Councillor Tim Adams, Leader of NNDC and Member for Cromer, said:

“The Rocket House plays a hugely important part in the vitality of Cromer’s seafront and continues to be a great resource for the town. I am delighted we are now able to move forward with the necessary work to invest in the building and safeguard its future.

"The works, and a new lease which we are discussing the with RNLI, will enable the return of the Henry Blogg Museum to its home in Cromer along with the H F Bailey , Henry’s lifeboat which so many people helped to preserve.”

RNLI Head of Region, Rebecca Felton, said:

“It is great news that North Norfolk District Council has approved a plan of repairs to the Rocket House Building where we have our Henry Blogg Museum. The museum helps preserve the memory of Henry Blogg and all the people of Cromer who gave so much to saving lives at sea. We also are pleased to be able to enter discussions on the new lease. 

"We are also very pleased that the council has agreed to extend our lease at the Sheringham RNLI station by 25 years. This will enable us to carry out the necessary building works to ensure the long-term viability of the station in the area.

"We would like to thank North Norfolk District Council for showing their ongoing support for the work of the RNLI in the area.”