Contractors hard at work to bring Mount Edgcumbe heritage to life

Anyone visiting Mount Edgcumbe Country Park this summer will have noticed work is underway to restore the historic Garden Battery, marking a major step in bringing the site back to life as part of the Horizon programme, supported by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Plymouth City Council.

This restoration forms part of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park’s commitment to transforming how people connect with the area’s rich maritime heritage. The project will revitalise a well-known landmark on the Rame Peninsula and along the waterfront of Plymouth Sound.

Given the site’s historic significance, specialist contractors have been selected for their expertise in heritage conservation. PLACE Architects, one of Cornwall’s longest-running architectural practices, will lead the design, bringing extensive experience in conservation-led projects. They will work alongside Chadburn Conservation Architects, an AABC-registered specialist practice, to ensure the highest standards of heritage stewardship.

Project management will be overseen by Insite Projects to ensure delivery aligns with approved plans, while main contractor TEC Construction (Holdings) Ltd will undertake the restoration works.

Revitalising a moment in history

Once complete, the restoration will give visitors the opportunity to explore an important piece of the region’s maritime heritage. The granite casemated battery completed by 1862, following recommendations made by the Royal Commission on the Defence of the United Kingdom in 1860. Built on the site of an earlier saluting battery, it originally housed up to 6 guns designed to defend the mouth of the Hamoaze and the approaches to Plymouth Sound.

The Battery also retains reminders of a royal connection. A gate and pier were constructed in preparation for Queen Victoria’s visit in both of which survive today. The entrance gate still bears royal insignia and serves as a lasting reminder of the occasion. Queen Victoria was so taken with the beauty of Mount Edgcumbe that she famously sketched the estate from Plymouth Harbour during her visit. [rct.uk], [rct.uk]

By 1910, the site had become one of the first coastal defence locations to utilise Defensive Electric Lights and played an important role in protecting the port during both World Wars. The guns and lights were removed in 1927, and the Ministry of Defence relinquished the site in 1946. However, its contribution to the defence of Plymouth remains an important part of its story.

Since then, the Battery has remained a prominent yet largely inaccessible part of the Mount Edgcumbe landscape. Delivered in partnership with the Mount Edgcumbe Joint Committee, comprising Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council, and in consultation with the Friends of Mount Edgcumbe, the project will breathe new life into this historic asset through careful conservation and restoration.

Located on the SW Coast Path plans include heritage interpretation, educational activities, community use and private hire opportunities. For the first time in its history, the Garden Battery will be opened for public access, marking a significant milestone in Plymouth Sound National Marine Park’s ambition to connect more people with the area’s rich maritime heritage.

As one of the South West’s most cherished destinations, Mount Edgcumbe already offers free access to award-winning formal gardens, parkland, cafés and independent businesses. The restoration of the Garden Battery will add an exciting new dimension to the visitor experience, allowing people to discover a previously hidden chapter in the story of Plymouth Sound.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said:

“It’s exciting to see work underway. Heritage is at the heart of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, and the Garden Battery is an important part of our maritime story. 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.”

Councillor Jim Candy, Joint Chair of the Mount Edgcumbe Joint Committee, said:

“The Mount Edgcumbe Joint Committee is delighted to see this important heritage work begin at Mount Edgcumbe, the jewel in the crown of South East Cornwall. It is a unique site offering free access to heritage, from parkland through to the coastline where the Garden Battery is located. Opening this space will make the area even more accessible to visitors from both Cornwall and Devon and provide a new way for people to engage with its remarkable history.”

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:

“Thanks to National Lottery players, we are delighted to support the restoration of the Garden Battery at Mount Edgcumbe as part of their Heritage Horizon Awards project. 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.” 

The Mount Edgcumbe Garden Battery project represents a significant step in preserving coastal heritage while creating meaningful public access and engagement, ensuring this important historic asset continues to inspire and serve the community for generations to come.