WORK on a World War Two anti-aircraft gun's emplacement has been completed.
IN February, the anti-aircraft gun that overlooks the beach at Hamble Point was removed for works on the concrete emplacement which it sits on.
It was said that original structure was said to be breaking up and there was "a very real risk of collapse" due to damage caused by years of buffeting by tides and wind, and undercutting by the sea.
But now, Eastleigh Borough Council has confirmed that the gun can once again be enjoyed as work on the new emplacement has been completed.
The Bofors Gun has now been mounted on a new concrete base on part of the adjoining car park.
The gun has also been repainted by Hamble volunteers, who are in charge of maintaining it, and a new information board provides the background and history of the World War two artifact.
The gun emplacement’s wartime role was to guard the approach to Southampton and protect nearby oil terminals.
Discussions with Heritage England are ongoing regarding the future of the original gun emplacement.
Cllr Tonia Craig, who chairs Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice & Hound Local Area Committee, said: “The Bofors Gun at Hamble Point is an important part of the area’s wartime heritage and a real point of interest for visitors. It's fantastic that we were able to the rescue it from damage by the tides and it is now accessible again and can be enjoyed by local people.”
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