A prominent seafront museum and café which is routinely battered by storms is set to undergo investigative work to see what can be done about its chronic problems with dampness.

The Rocket House, which sits just above the beach at the end of Cromer's Esplanade, is less than 20 years old but requires substantial repairs due to its frame being heavily corroded.

It is owned by North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) which last year agreed to put £1m into a budget for restoring the building, which is leased to a café and an RNLI museum.

Now the authority’s cabinet is set to agree to commission a detailed investigation of the cause of damp in the property, as well as establish what options there are for repairs and consider the costs.

The work is expected to be carried out in two phases, with the first focusing on the public toilets and stairs, to minimise disruption on tenants.  

The second stage would examine the museum.

Eastern Daily Press: Rocket House in CromerRocket House in Cromer (Image: George Thompson, LDR)

A report to NNDC’s cabinet said: “The intention would again be to minimise disruption and these investigations are not expected to require the RNLI to vacate the building.  

“The cost of the initial investigations would be in the region of £50,000 which will cover the costs of the intrusive works and also the expert advice on the probable cause if that can be established during the initial stage.” 

Officials have also started investigating what additional funding is available, including from the National Lottery. 

The cabinet will meet on Monday to discuss the plans. 

Construction of Rocket House started in 2005 and the building has survived two storm surges - one in 2007 and again in 2013. 

It has already undergone routine maintenance to its lift and toilets. 

As part of NNDC's 2030 Net Zero aims, further work will is expected to take place at Rocket House to improve both its energy and thermal efficiency.