Top TV Detective Uncovers Lord Austin's Office Hidden From Public View Until Now

Top TV detective, John Nettles, was at MG Rover Group, Longbridge to formally unveil a recreation of Lord Austin's original office with John Parkinson, Managing Director XPart Ltd and former Austin Apprentice. The office has been hidden from public view until now.

Lord Austin’s office has been recreated, with its original contents and decor and incorporated into the company's Conference Centre. The office, occupied by Herbert Austin during his working life at Longbridge (1905-1941), was largely undisturbed for 60 years, but hidden from public view.

Having worked during the establishment of the Wolseley Motor Company in 1896, Austin left to set up his own company, seven miles southwest of Birmingham. Despite being in the countryside, it offered his new workforce road and rail access, a water supply from the River Rea and smog-free air, where the paint on his motorcars dried with a bright finish. The room holds great significance both for the motor industry and Birmingham.

Lord Austin’s office will be available for public viewing next month and to ensure its period atmosphere is retained, a specially created room provides viewing through the exterior windows.

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