PART of an historic monument on Portland known locally as the 'ghost tunnels' could be closed to the public.
Residents are being asked to have their say on new proposals by landowner Dorset Council to protect and enhance the Grade II listed Verne High Angle Battery - a surviving relic from Portland's military past.
Proposals include carrying out improvement work on some of the buildings and structures; placing a replica gun at the site; wildlife conservation; improved access, and new public information boards.
Meanwhile, all or some of the tunnels below ground level could be closed to improve safety, plans show.
Feedback is now being sought in a public survey which runs until Sunday February 19.
Many residents have explored these tunnels (Image: Historic England)
Constructed in the 1890s, the High Angle Battery - also known as the Verne Quarry Battery - represents an important part of Portland's wider history, and holds memories for residents who have enjoyed exploring the tunnels from childhood and upwards.
The below-ground complex of buildings, tunnels and gun emplacements was designed to give the military a concealed base from which shells could be fired onto ships attacking Portland Harbour below – aided by a complicated system to help the gunners locate marauding vessels.
Due to its national significance the High Angle Battery has been designated as a scheduled monument and is now classed as being ‘at risk’ on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register.
To help safeguard its future, landowner Dorset Council is working with a range of partners via the Dorset Coast Forum in order to plan a programme of repairs.
The site is being placed on Heritage England's 'at risk' register (Image: Historic England)
Also proposed is increased conservation of the site’s ecology to encourage plant and wildlife species such as bats; as well as a new interpretation scheme. Public events and talks may also be held to help increase visitor numbers.
Volunteers are meanwhile being recruited to look after the site following the improvement project.
To find out more and share your views in the public survey head over to the Dorset Coast Forum website at www.dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk/high-angle-battery-improvements-project
You can also pick up a paper copy from the Island Community Action office, opposite Easton Park on Portland, and a range of other outlets on the island.
You can also share your views with other readers by taking part in our unofficial poll.
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