Surbiton’s place as one of the most important locations in racing car history is being honoured this weekend.
The old Cooper car works in Hollyfield Road was set up by racing legend Sir Jack Brabham, who along with John Cooper, started building and testing Formula 1 cars there in 1934.
The building is often referred to as the birthplace of the Mini Cooper.
On Saturday, August 1, at noon, the Transport Trust is marking the property, known as the TDV building, with a commemorative plaque.
In its heyday
Stuart Wilkinson, chairman of the Transport Trust, said: “In its day the building was home to the most prolific racing car factory in the world.
“This will be the 78th red wheel in the Transport Trust’s programme to mark sites of Transport Heritage significance in UK.”
The building gained significant interest recently when a Kingston teenager launched a campaign to buy it.
Kyle Stanger, 18, received support from across the world when he started the Save the home of the Cooper campaign in May urging Kingston Council to list the property as a community interest site.
If he is successful, he plans to turn the space into an education centre and community garage where people can learn about car history and study for automotive qualifications.
Mr Stanger’s campaign is ongoing, but Kingston-based estate agent Bonsors has confirmed the building is on offer.
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