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Many of the historic buildings in the Portsmouth area are at risk of being lost forever.
Historic England has published 2026’s Heritage At Risk register, highlighting the landmarks which need immediate attention and preserving. Two structures have been added to this year’s list, with none being taken off.
The register covers all listed buildings, scheduled monuments, conservation areas, registered parks and gardens and other categories. Claudia Kenyatta CBE and Emma Squire CBE, Co-CEOs of Historic England, said: “Our historic buildings and places help tell the story of where we live and contribute to the character and identity of local communities.
“Each year, the Heritage at Risk Register showcases the positive impact that restoring and reusing these special places can have. The most effective way to protect our buildings is to bring them back into use as places that create connection and enjoyment for local people.
“The sites saved and removed from the Register this year show what can be achieved when partners and communities work together to deliver positive, lasting change. By working together, we can protect our heritage for generations to come.”
Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross added: "Every part of the UK is bursting with history, so it is vital we protect the heritage sites at the heart of communities which help tell the stories of our nation. That’s why our £1.5bn Arts Everywhere Fund is so important, supporting efforts to save more than 1,000 arts venues, museums, libraries, and heritage buildings across England.
“The Heritage at Risk Register plays a crucial role in identifying these historic places that need our support. This year’s Register is an important reminder of the pressures facing our historic environment, from ageing buildings and structural deterioration to the impacts of extreme weather. I want us to build on our progress to ensure our heritage is protected for generations to come.”
Here are 28 structures on the list. One of them not included in the gallery is the archaeological site of the Motte and bailey castle near Apple Dumpling Bridge, south of Rowner in Gosport.
1. Fort Purbrook
Fort Purbrook, one of the historic Palmerston forts, is considered to be in a declining state. Despite this, work is underway to restore the site. | Palmerston Forts Society
2. Weighbridge at Eastney Sewage Pumping Station dates back to the Victorian era.
Weighbridge at Eastney Sewage Pumping Station was added to the Heritage At Risk register this year. | Historic England
3. Horse Sand Fort - Scheduled Monument
Horse Sand Fort is a circular 19th century Royal Commission sea fort lying in the Solent 3.6km south east of Southsea Castle which was one of a chain of four sea forts in the Solent recommended by the Royal Commission on the Defence of the United Kingdom in 1860 and designed to protect Portsmouth dockyard from seaborne attack. The Fort also was armed during both World Wars. The Fort currently has no sustainable use aside from occasional visitor tours, Historic England has said, and it was sold at auction in 2021. | Courtesy Lambert Smith Hampton
4. Iron and Brass Foundry - HMNB Portsmouth
The iron foundry and smithery was built 1857-1861, by Col GT Greene RE and Andrew Murray, Chief Engineer; extended 1878, with later alterations and the main part of the building was converted to office use in 2003. The east wing (Building 1/136) remains unused and at risk, Historic England says. There were concerns over drainage and regular flooding of the building but this has been resolved. Roof repairs are due to be undertaken. | Contributed