Gosport: Unveiling Forgotten Histories
Gosport is a prime example of how Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) schemes can uncover and celebrate rich histories.
One significant aspect of Gosport's heritage is the Browndown Trenches. Following the First World War, these purpose-built pathways became hidden beneath heathland, where they remained, forgotten, until the Heritage Action Zone focused attention on them. More than just historical artefacts, they have enhanced a community's understanding of its past, bringing opportunities for new access and enjoyment to improve the community's health and wellbeing.
Finding lost history
Browndown Trenches is deeply rooted in Gosport’s military heritage. These trenches played a notable role in military training and history, serving the Army, the Royal Navy, and the Royal Air Force. The recent discovery of the Browndown Trenches' historical photographs has bolstered efforts to recognise and preserve this nationally important site.
Collaborative efforts for preservation
The HAZ project in Gosport brought Historic England together with local organisations and communities to preserve and celebrate the Browndown Trenches. Those involved included Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), Gosport Borough Council (GBC), local schools and the Rowner Estate community.
Following extensive survey and research by Historic England, the national importance of the Browndown Trenches has been recognised and they are now protected as a scheduled monument. This designation will protect the site and safeguard this vital piece of military heritage for future generations.
The HAZ Programme has bolstered the momentum for ongoing heritage-led regeneration efforts, protecting important assets and ensuring a future for spaces in our Borough that the whole community can enjoy.”
Gallery
Please click on the gallery images to enlarge.
The impact and future prospects
Through the discovery and protection of the Browndown Trenches, the HAZ initiative in Gosport has uncovered and conserved forgotten histories and built viable partnerships for future heritage projects. The collaborative efforts between local communities, government organisations, and Historic England demonstrate the power of partnerships in achieving significant cultural and historical preservation.
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic which disrupted schedules and hindered progress, the HAZ project in Gosport has now concluded. Partnerships established during this initiative will continue, with the DIO and Gosport Borough Council collaborating to find ways to improve accessibility and the visitor experience of the Browndown Trenches and support local heritage.
Support from Historic England and partnership working has been integral to the success of the Gosport HAZ Programme.
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