TOURISM bosses are scouring Morecambe to find a possible location for a brand new museum.

While neighbouring Lancaster has a wealth of museums, Morecambe has nowhere for both locals and visitors to learn about the resort's glorious past.

The Morecambe museum idea has been made a top priority by the council and a business plan has been drawn up.

Tourism, fishing and popular entertainment would feature strongly in the attraction.

The announcement will please campaigners who have been calling for a museum in the resort for years.

Dr Andrew White said that the museum plan was considered important by councillors who had decided to move it further up the priority list.

He explained: "The important thing is to decide what sort of museum is desired in Morecambe. There is a considerable difference in costs and the type of site needed depending on what sort of museum is required."

"If we want a museum aimed mainly at visitors it will have to be glossy and attractive and would almost certainly need to occupy a central position on the promenade. But if we want a museum aimed mainly at the local community it will need to be placed closer to its users."

Council officers are looking at locations and costs before deciding if it is feasible to develop a brand new museum in the resort.

Dr White added: "The people of Morecambe want a museum as they have a lot of pride in the area. Morecambe has a very wide range of history such as the fishing industry, shrimpers, shipbreakers, the Promenade, the growth of the seaside resort and entertainment.

"There is definitely a demand for a museum in Morecambe but we have to be cautious and consider not just the setting up costs but also the running cost."

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