During the period of mourning, I, like my political colleagues across the UK, have refrained from campaigning out of courtesy to our late Queen, and the Royal Family. However, I have done my best to communicate my position to those constituents who have contacted me directly with their concerns about the National Brewery Centre. I have had a number of phone calls and meetings with those involved over the past week to discuss the situation further.
My position on this is absolutely clear - Burton is the brewing capital of the world, and we must retain and exhibit our heritage proudly. There are many buildings in Burton which contribute to its brewing history, which we should preserve for future generations, including the National Brewing Centre. I understand the reasons why Molson Coors wish to move their head offices there - to the buildings they own - and which will allow them to continue their commitment to Burton and retain the jobs of those they employ.
However, it is vitally important that full consideration is given to exhibits and artefacts which are currently displayed, as well as the function that the Brewery Centre offers for large gatherings and events. My conversations with Molson Coors and East Staffordshire Borough Council have pushed this point and asked them both to commit to ensuring this happens. Both parties are looking at options for all the exhibits currently on display at the National Brewery Centre, including the vehicles and locomotive. I will report back on this as further progress is made on these discussions.
What happens next? I am confident that both Molson Coors and ESBC are committed to working together to find solutions to these issues, but it is vital that we continue to make clear how important this is to us. I intend to present a petition to Parliament, calling on the Government to support our endeavours to protect Burton’s heritage, and I have included the link below for those who would like to show their support.
I know this is a matter which has attracted a great deal of attention, and it is clear that we all want to see Burton’s heritage protected and it’s status as brewing capital of the world retained. I will continue to keep you updated as further meetings take place, and when I will be raising the issue in the House of Commons.
Sign the petition below
Petition: National Brewery Centre in Burton upon Trent
To the House of Commons.
The petition of residents of the constituency of Burton,
Declares that the items, artefacts and archives of the National Brewery Centre in Burton upon Trent must not be lost after the building is closed down; and further that the heritage of Burton’s brewing industry is of national cultural importance.
The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to support Burton’s heritage and help ensure that all the items, artefacts and archives from the National Brewery Centre in Burton upon Trent are kept within the town for public exhibition following the closure of the National Brewery Centre.
