Sep 24 - Second Phase Of Northern Defences Project Now Complete
The Government has announced the completion of the second phase of the Northern Defences project.
This phase has consisted of the clearing up of the King’s, Queen’s and Prince’s Lines. During the last twelve weeks sections of tunnels, steps, barracks, magazines and galleries have been cleared of debris and vegetation. This second phase was initiated by a team of Royal Engineers who very kindly agreed to start this part of the project.
A site visit in order to review progress this morning took place at which the Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joseph Garcia, the Minister for Heritage Steven Linares and the Minister for Tourism Samantha Sacramento were present. The visit was conducted by project manager Carl Viagas with Alfred Brittenden from the Government’s Land Agents LPS.
The Northern Defences, an area commonly referred to as “the jungle”, which had been neglected for decades, has now been transformed. These works have exposed the skills of the Royal Artificer Corps who carved into the northern face of the rock a formidable network of military defences in the late 18th century.
The Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joseph Garcia, who has led on this project for the Government, said: “Even though there are some minor elements that still need addressing, the completion of this phase makes it particularly exciting as the connection between Casemates Square and the Middle Galleries in the upper rock has been reopened. Not only is this a great asset for residents of Gibraltar but it will also add a new dimension to our tourist product. For the first time Fortress Gibraltar will be unveiling its Northern Defences to the public. A thousand years of military history ranging from medieval fortifications to WWII installations can be explored”.
The Northern Defences Ministerial Committee, which includes Environment Minister Dr John Cortes, Heritage Minister Steven Linares, Tourism Minister Samantha Sacramento and is chaired by Dr Garcia met yesterday for a full briefing and to discuss the way forward.
Dr Garcia explained that as part of the programme of works, the Government, in collaboration with the Heritage Trust, will be providing a series of guided tours of these defences, whilst works progress in sections of the King’s and Queen’s Gallery. More details on the tours will be provided shortly.
{fcomment}
