The Gibraltar Heritage Trust says it welcomes the recent attention brought by Action for Housing to the long-standing challenges facing Gibraltar’s Old Town, as reported in the Gibraltar Chronicle on 12 May 2025. 

A statement continued: “We share the view that this historically significant area, often described as “the jewel of Gibraltar”, is at a critical crossroads.

“The Trust wishes to take this opportunity to strongly reinforce the importance of the Old Town not just as a residential district, but as the heart of Gibraltar’s identity, character, and cultural narrative. It is a living monument; its layered history, architectural charm, narrow streets, and communities are the soul of Gibraltar.

“However, we cannot ignore the serious decline and neglect that many areas have suffered over time. We see this through our routine work with assessment of building applications where properties have been left in disrepair for so long that they are literally on the verge of dereliction. The combination of protected tenancies, under-investment, and piecemeal renovation has left too many buildings in an unacceptable state of disrepair. As residents are moved to new government rental housing, the fabric and future of the Old Town hangs in the balance.

“None of the issues faced are new ones, the Trust has long called for an urban regeneration scheme and there is work going on in this area, but efforts to create a comprehensive long-term masterplan often get bogged down in the detail of longstanding historic issues such as lack of investment in infrastructure, poor quality repairs, lack of incentives and historical tenancy issues.

“Part of the work being undertaken on the new Development Plan is currently reviewing planning policies in place for the Old Town and will ,we hope, set a clear, sustainable vision for its future. The plans must balance the urgent need for safe, high-quality housing with the preservation and enhancement of our rich heritage. It must move beyond short-term interventions and instead adopt a holistic approach that includes:

• Clear planning and environmental policies to support responsible and sensitive redevelopment by both private owners and government.
• Incentives for restoration, including grants, technical guidance, and public-private partnerships, to encourage owners to invest in rehabilitation rather than demolition. 
• Sympathetic renovation strategies that respect and protect the unique architectural and historical value of the Old Town buildings.
• Public realm improvements to make the area attractive, accessible, and welcoming for residents and visitors alike. 
• Support for the local community, ensuring that those who have contributed to the life of the Old Town over generations are not displaced or excluded from its future.

“The Government has already identified heritage as a key driver for sustainable change and community wellbeing in its vision ‘Safeguarding our Past, Enriching our Future’.  The Old Town has the potential to be a thriving cultural and tourism destination, providing high-quality living for its residents while offering an authentic visitor experience. The Trust knows that heritage-led regeneration can create a model of urban renewal that places people and culture at its core.

“As a Trust we will continue to work in these areas collaboratively with Government, stakeholders, residents, and the wider community to safeguard and revitalise the Old Town for current and future generations.”