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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.
17. Fort Southwick
Fort Southwick, one of the Palmerston forts, is described as being in fair condition and slowly decaying. | IAN HARGREAVES. (032318-29)
18. Holy Trinity Church in Gosport.
Holy Trinity Church in Gosport was newly listed on the Heritage At Risk register. It's considered at being at immediate risk of rapid decay. | Google Street View
19. Former Guard House - Haslar Gunboat Yard - Gosport - Grade II* listed
The Former Guard House to Gunboat Yard was constructed in mid-19th century, mainly built of red brick with limestone dressings beneath hipped slate roof. Vacant and at risk due to poor condition of roofs, rainwater disposal, leaning chimney stack, windows, doors, floors and internal finishes. Historic England grant aided a Conservation Management Plan and Feasibility Study. New uses are being explored. | Historic England
20. Gunboat Yard Boundary Walls, Watchtowers and Gates, Haslar Gunboat Yard, Gosport
The mid C19 boundary walls incorporating corner watchtowers, walkways and gates which are mainly built of red brick laid in Flemish bond with stone dressings and pyramidal slate roofs to watch towers. Historic England say it is at risk due to animal burrowing, defective roofs, eroding brickwork and pointing, missing windows and doors and vegetation growth. Historic England says contact with a local construction college has been established who will supervise brickwork repairs at the site to develop heritage skills. | Contributed