Historic Navy rum store revamp plans revealed

The building used to have a second floor, but it was hit by a bomb in World War Two

A building which used to house the Royal Navy's entire store of rum rations could be renovated under new plans.

The Rum Store in Gosport's Victoria Quay, Hampshire, was built as alcohol storage for the sailors at Portsmouth Naval Base about 150 years ago, but later fell into disrepair.

Costing £22m, the revamp would see the Grade II listed property turned into "mixed employment space" with some retail and leisure units.

Due to be completed by summer 2026, it is expected to boost the local economy by £11m per year and create up to 200 jobs, Gosport Borough Council said.

In 2023, Gosport Borough Council won government Levelling Up funding to revamp the building

The renovation would create space for maritime businesses like yacht brokers and naval architects, according to the plans.

Proposals include a possible rooftop terrace bar and restaurant with views across Portsmouth Harbour.

Specialist repairs to the building's historic structure would be carried out, as well as the reconstruction of the second floor which was demolished following World War Two bomb damage.

Peter Chegwyn, leader of Gosport Borough Council, said restoring the Rum Store was part of wider plans to improve the town's waterfront.

"Not only could this project restore a derelict historic building, it'll create a new commercial and leisure destination for people to enjoy," he said.

"We hope it'll welcome more residents and visitors alike to explore a more connected waterfront."