Coalhouse Fort, one of Thurrock’s most important historic landmarks, is looking for volunteers.
As part of the Reanimating Coalhouse Fort project, the team is looking for people to help maintain the fort and its surrounding grounds, as well as supporting the delivery of public events throughout the year.
Kevin Diver, Coalhouse Fort’s Community Engagement Officer, says: “Volunteering at Coalhouse Fort is a fantastic opportunity to be part of preserving an important local landmark while also supporting the wider community. It’s also a great way to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and spend time in a unique and beautiful setting.”
The Reanimating Coalhouse Fort is developing exciting plans to bring the casements, gate house and parade ground back into community, education and business use, involving the local community and people with an interest in history.
Built between 1861-1874, Coalhouse Fort was one of several forts constructed to defend the Thames estuary. During WWII, it was commissioned as HMS St Clements and played a key role in protecting against waterborne and aerial attacks. Today, the fort remains a significant heritage site, welcoming visitors who want to explore its surrounding parkland.
Kevin Diver leads the monthly walk around Coalhouse Fort Park, providing fascinating insight into the history at the site.
To join the next walk, simply arrive at the Coalhouse Fort gates at 11am on Wednesday, 27 May. The guided walk takes one hour.
Reanimating Coalhouse Fort is supported by Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Kevin Diver via email at coalhouse.fort@thurrock.gov.uk. Or go to www.thurrock.gov.uk/volunteering.
To discover more about Reanimating Coalhouse Fort, go to https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/coalhouse-fort-park/coalhouse-fort.