Controversial Fort Gilkicker development to spur Hampshire jobs

A controversial housing development which could see 26 flats built at Fort Gilkicker in Gosport could create new Hampshire jobs.

Fort Gilkicker, the Royal Commission fort situated at the end of Stokes Bay was build during 1863 and 1871.

According to Portsmouth Advertiser, the fort has become pricey to keep in shape, and during 2009 Hampshire County Council spent £93,000 just to maintain the site’s basic works and security measures.

Developers Askett Hawk would like to build 26 luxury apartments on the site as a means to safeguard the area.

Robert Harper, head of conservation and design at Gosport Borough Council said the development makes sense as the site is unsafe and deteriorating.

“It's about securing the future of the fort. There's a responsibility in maintaining this fort. We believe that without any bold plans this site faces serious structural difficulties. Some parts are in a poor state of repair and facing decay.”

Although the venture will create temporary construction jobs through the building of the flats and an access road, concerns about residents’ safety during floods have been voiced.

However, Alan Travers, a civil engineer at Buro Happold who has been advising Askett Hawk is confident that residents will have more than enough time to evacuate in the event of a flood.