GOSPORT Borough Council has approved fresh plans for UK Docks to regenerate the former Royal Navy Rum Store at Victoria Quay, part of the historic Royal Clarence Yard.
The council approval paves the way for the full regeneration of the huge, iconic building, which will breathe new life into it while preserving its historic character.
Ready to be revitalised - the iconic ex-Royal Navy Rum Store
UK Docks’ business development director, Ben Mason, said: “It’s great to have the plans approved so that we can now press on with the work which is already beginning to shape and move at pace in the wake of extensive enabling works being completed.
“The building is a significant heritage asset for Gosport, and it’s great that it’s going to return to being a productive space supporting the local economy.”
The Grade II-listed building has stood vacant for more than 30 years after suffering bomb damage during the Second World War and a roof collapse.
The original ex-Rum Store roof has been lost over time
UK Docks bought the wider site, on which the Rum Store sits, in 2019.
In a statement to the council’s planning committee, the company illustrated how the multi-million-pound regeneration scheme would create flexible commercial space, improve waterfront access, and encourage further investment in the area.
The proposals add to plans previously granted in 2025 but introduce an alternative layout.
This includes a new ground-floor unit for use as marine retail, which was not included in the earlier approval.
Central to the plans is the reconstruction of the lost second storey, designed to replicate the building’s original appearance.
Work will soon transform the dilapidated 19th century building into a huge community asset.
Other elements include commercial uses alongside wider regeneration works to make the building viable for modern operations while maintaining its heritage value.
The council made clear there was no viable option for the building to be converted into residential use due to its location within the industrial marine site, which is something UK Docks has always accepted.
Speaking at the planning meeting, Coun Kirsten Bradley, Independent, Lee East, welcomed the decision, according to the Portsmouth News.
She said: “It’s great to see an improvement to a listed building that is being brought back to life. We have waited a long time to see that area thrive.”
The Rum Store has formed part of Gosport’s successful Levelling Up bid, with a share of the £18m awarded in November 2023 earmarked for its restoration.
The heritage body The Georgian Group has backed the plans, describing them as positive.
The Group has asked for proper records to be made of any historic fabric lost during redevelopment due to the building’s complex history.
The plans were voted for approval unanimously by councillors.