Historic fort among buildings at high risk named by Historic England

Fort Purbook. on Portsdown Hill Road, Portsmouth, was built in the mid-1800s to defend the city – in particular the dockyard – from attacks by the French.

But the Grade-II listed building has been put on a list of high risk buildings by Historic England because of its unstable infrastructure.

The Peter Ashley Activities Trust acts as an activities centre for young people from across south Hampshire.

But Heritage England said some areas not used by the trust were deteriorating.

The report said: ‘Fort Purbrook has been added to the Heritage At Risk Register this year because the condition of some areas.

‘Historic England is working with the trust and the owner, Portsmouth City Council, on a plan to undertake a condition survey of the fort, from which a number of new repair projects will be put in place.’

Portsmouth City Council says it is keen to protect the fort.

Commercial property and leasehold services manager Jo Bennet said: ‘We are working closely with Historic England and the Portsmouth Youth Activities Committee charity to preserve the future of this heritage asset.

‘This is a building of great historical interest and as landowners we are aware of our responsibility to support the tenants and the experts as we all work together to find the best long-term solution.’

Other buildings identified as at risk of being lost through neglect, decay or inappropriate development are:

n St Mary’s Church, Fratton

n St George’s Church, Portsea

n Fort Cumberland, Eastney

n Horse Sand Fort

n Fort Southwick

n The Beneficial School, Portsea

n Wymering Manor

n Former Royal Naval Academy

n St Luke’s Church, Southsea

n St Cuthbert’s Church, Copnor

n Trinity Methodist Church, Southsea

n Fort Fareham

n Hilsea Lines

n No 25 Store, Portsmouth Naval Base

n No 6 Dock, Portsmouth Naval Base

n Iron and Brass Foundry, Portsmouth Naval Base

n The Parade, Portsmouth Naval Base