The 66 year old docking stage at the Southern Gun Tower has finally given up resisting the harsh winter storms. Maintenance crews removed several tons of debris surrounding the tower legs in February to prevent any structural damage to the fort. Now bereft of its fendering, access to Redsands has been suspended until a new system can be installed.
The two new cable bridges scheduled for installation by The Royal Engineers in late spring 2009 is now on hold. Meanwhile, engineers Tony Pine and Justin Yardley have prepared plans for the new fendering and materials are being sourced.
Two Rock Bands have offered to do fund raising performances to help with financing this costly work. More news on these events will be found on this website during April.
The prodigy have launched their new album “Invaders Must Die” at the start of their world tour. The new video and publicity at the venues features the Redsand Fort. This will no doubt help to raise awareness of the existence of the British Sea Forts.
Extensive filming at the Redsand Towers was carried out during October 2008. This includes some dramatic aerial footage which the band have kindly donated to Project Redsand. Don't worry, the bug on the roof is only theatrical paint and should get washed away on the first rainy day.
The Prodigy have also donated ten tickets to their Wembley Arena gigs in April 2009 as well as an exclusive signed T shirt and a number of special signed posters created for Project Redsand. All of these item will be “up for grabs” very soon . Check this website for links to the Ebay auctions. All proceeds will go towards the restoration of this historic Sea Fort.
The Redsand Fort has inspired many people in the arts world and Project Redsand are very keen to embrace this as much as possible. Look out for future connections with The Prodigy and many other creative artists to come.
The Thames Sea Forts are the last in a long history of British Marine Defences. The Army Anti Aircraft forts have played a significant role in post World War 2 developments. Notably in offshore fuel exploration and drilling platforms. The successful rapid deployment of the Maunsell Forts soon after led to the construction of the first offshore oil platform in the Gulf of Mexico in the late 1940’s.
Up until 2003, no serious consideration had been paid to the preservation of any of these historic structures. Now discussion is taking place within Government Agencies which will determine the future of The Maunsell Towers.
Project Redsand has been established to secure the Redsand Towers, coded "Uncle 6" during WW2 and chosen because it is the better of the two Army forts, closest to shore and clear of the main shipping lanes.
Project Redsand have, since August 2003, been in discussion with
Government Agencies about this proposal. Concerns such as the stability and structural integrity of the fort have been addressed. During July 2004, a survey team inspected the fort on behalf of Project Redsand. A Port of London Authority diving team together with Taylor Woodrow materials specialists were present at the initial inspections.
Mowlem Marine, experts in marine structures, installed a new safe access system for Project Redsand in 2005. Materials were donated by a number of River Thames companies. Other companies around the UK are now preparing to assist Project Redsand.
Meanwhile, the Department for Culture Media and Sport have considered an application to list the structures. A summary of their report can be seen on the News page. The Project Team are seeking sponsorship and grant aid for the restoration program which will form a Charitable Trust.
The Ministry of Defence is to supply a team of Royal Engineers who, as part of a training exercise will assist working parties at the Fort.
The duration of the restoration program will be determined by the availability of funding. This may take a number of years to realise. Patience, determination and hard work will be essential.
To date, media support has been excellent. The Project has been covered by the Times, BBC Breakfast TV, The Telegraph and a host of local TV, Radio and newspapers.
July 2007 saw the first licenced broadcast from the Redsand Fort. The 10 day Restricted Service Licence allowed transmission on medium wave and a webcast, commemorating 40 years since the demise of "offshore radio" from the Thames Estuary forts. Red Sands Radio was sponsored by Canterbury City Council and the Lottery Fund.
FUTURE USE OF THE FORT
The fort will be restored on a tower by tower basis. Upon completion, each tower will be put to immediate use. The Redsand Fort will generate 'self funding' - the proceeds used to maintain and develop facilities.
The layout of the towers allows us to exploit various activities including music recording studios, communications facilities, hydrogen from seawater experiments, a wartime and broadcasting museum and possibly digital broadcast. From time to time, the towers may be used for "assault training" by the Royal Engineers Theatre Troops. The general public will have the opportunity to visit the Fort in small groups. Special events will be arranged including weddings and corporate outings.
Please Bookmark this web site to view future developments.
