Historic coastal defence battery being restored
David Dixon/GeographWork has begun to restore a historic, granite-built military fort with hopes to open it up to the public.
The work on the Grade II listed Garden Battery at Mount Edgcumbe in Cornwall, which dates back to 1862, was announced in June. It has been funded by Plymouth City Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The city council said the works were part of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park's "commitment to transforming how people connect with the area's rich maritime heritage".
Council leader Tudor Evans said: "Heritage is at the heart of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and the Garden Battery is an important part of our maritime story."
Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park is now jointly owned and managed by Plymouth City Council and Cornwall Council.
Plymouth City CouncilThe Garden Battery was built on the site of an earlier saluting battery, which originally housed 10 guns to defend the mouth of the Hamoaze and the surrounding channel.
By 1910, two searchlights had been installed in former gun casements.
The guns and lights were removed in 1927 and the site was relinquished by the government in 1946.
'Coastal and military heritage'
Evans added: "This project, with thanks to National Lottery players, not only preserves the building but creates new opportunities for engagement, learning and sustainable commercial use to support its long-term future."
Plymouth City Council said specialist contractors had been selected because of the site's historic significance.
The council said the restoration would give visitors the opportunity to visit "an important piece of the region's maritime heritage" first time in its history.
It added there were plans for heritage interpretation, educational activities, community use and private hire opportunities.
Stuart McLeod, from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "This investment will help safeguard an important part of the area's coastal and military heritage while creating new opportunities for people to explore, learn about and enjoy the remarkable stories that have shaped Plymouth Sound for generations."
