Trustees of the proposed Museum of British Surfing have confirmed that they are in talks with the Christie Estate over the possibility of developing a permanent home for the attraction at a North Devon beach.

A site close to Saunton Sands has been earmarked for the new museum, which has received approval for two development grants totalling more than £33,000 from the Leader 4 initiative and the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty's sustainable development fund. Planning permission to develop the Museum of British Surfing at an industrial unit in nearby Braunston had been granted earlier this year, but plans are now in place for an eco-friendly building at the beach site.

Founder Pete Robinson said: "It has always been my dream to have the surf museum down on the beach - it's the natural home for it. Saunton is a fantastic surfing break and is probably the most accessible in the North Devon area so it is a perfect fit for us. "We believe we can create a low impact building using materials like natural timbers and renewable energy sources that will compliment the area while still bringing a vibrant 21st century visitor attraction to the West Country."

Plans are also being considered for the extension of the Tarka Trail in partnership with the sustainable transport charity, Sustrans, to provide a cycle and footpath link between Saunton and Braunton.