Members of Portland’s Court Leet toured a historic gun emplacement guarding the island’s harbour and Weymouth bay.
Portland Port welcomed the party for the special visit to the former East Weare Battery, which stands on a hillside within its estate.
The coastal defence was built in the mid-19th Century and was armed until 1956 before being used for training by the Royal Navy.
Portland Port chief executive Bill Reeves said: “Members of the Court Leet expressed an interest in seeing the East Weare Battery so we arranged a visit.
“It was a pleasure to host them and give them the opportunity to see the site in person and find out more about its important role in the defence of our shores.”
Portland Port provided lunch and arranged for an Excelsior minibus to take the party to the site.
History of Court Leet and Battery
The Island and Royal Manor of Portland Court Leet traces its origins back more than 900 years.
Comprised of 24 volunteer Jury members, its mission is to protect the rights of commoners on the island and to preserve and protect more than 150 hectares of Crown common land. It also donates substantially to Portland charities.
Gerry Hinde, who is Crown local agent and bailiff of the Court Leet, said: “Our thanks go to Portland Port for a fascinating visit.
“The East Weare Battery forms part of the rich heritage of Portland and we are grateful for the opportunity to find out more about the role it played in defence of the island, harbour and sea lanes over many years.”
East Weare Battery features in Portland Port’s annual tours for the public during Dorset Architectural Heritage Week in September. Application details will be posted on the Portland Port website near the time.
Last year Portland Port donated a Victorian-era mark III rifled, muzzle loading (RML) 64 pounder for a major renovation of the High Angle Battery at New Ground.
The port is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year after succeeding the Royal Navy as owner of the site in 1996
Click here for more about the history of the port.
- The Court Leet on the Island & Royal Manor of Portland, has run continuously for over 900 years. Comprised of 24 volunteer Jury members, its mission is to protect the rights of commoners on the island and to preserve and protect more than 150 hectares of Crown common land. It also donates substantially to Portland charities.