Restoring a Sussex Icon: Newhaven Fort Reopens After £7.5m Transformation
Following a year-long closure, Newhaven Fort has reopened its gates after a major £7.5 million restoration – with Clear Futures playing a key role in delivering a more accessible, sustainable and visitor-ready future for this iconic coastal landmark.
The reopening was recently marked by a visit from The Duke of Gloucester, who toured the upgraded site and unveiled a commemorative plaque. The event highlighted the extensive works carried out to preserve the historic fort and re-establish it as a central part of Newhaven’s visitor economy.
Built in 1871, the fort is the largest defensive structure ever constructed in Sussex and a Scheduled Monument. Over the years, it had suffered from exposure to the elements, with key areas closed to the public for safety reasons. Lewes District Council, secured UK Government funding to bring the fort back to life.
Clear Futures supported the delivery of the project by managing procurement and providing a streamlined, expert-led supply chain. Local SME HOP Consultants led structural engineering works, drawing on their heritage expertise and coordinating local contractors to ensure the majority of project spend remained close to Newhaven.
The restoration addressed both the historic integrity and future viability of the site. Two major gun emplacements and the battery command post have been made safe and reopened, along with the casemates – underground vaults now hosting refreshed exhibitions. For the first time, visitors can also explore the Battery Observation Post, which had previously been off-limits.
Visitor experience has been a key focus. The Romney Hut in the parade square has been restored and re-clad for use as an event space, while a new bespoke adventure playground has been installed. The café, shop, office, and ticketing areas have all been upgraded to improve accessibility and flow for guests.
Sustainability has been integrated throughout, including the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting in the tunnels. These upgrades ensure the site is both environmentally conscious and futureproofed for generations to come.
Newhaven Fort is now operated by Wave Leisure, offering a year-round destination for families, schools, and history enthusiasts. All standard tickets now provide unlimited return visits for 12 months, and new attractions – including a 1970s-themed escape room – are planned for 2025.
With its sweeping views of the Sussex coast, rich military history, and refreshed facilities, the fort is once again a key feature of the South Coast’s heritage landscape – and a powerful example of what collaborative, community-focused regeneration can achieve.
Find out more: our strategic partnership with Eastbourne & Lewes
Eastbourne & Lewes Council’s partnership with Clear Futures focuses on developing long-term sustainable outcomes for the area. To date, the partnership has centred around in-depth strategic support, including research into decarbonising the social housing stock and supporting the development of their Local Plan.
See what we’ve achieved
