According to Historic England’s Heritage Investment Prospectus, released in May 2025, this is one of the key opportunities for transformative heritage-led regeneration in the South East. The site extends for 13.25 ha (132,534 sqm) and comprises 20,194 sqm (217,371 sqft) of existing accommodation in 54 buildings.
Several of the historic buildings are suitable for adaptive reuse including numerous casemates (brick vaulted rooms) and underground tunnels. There is also extensive green space in the surrounding ditches, which could form part of a landscaped park and potential for further open space. The current owners have proposed a mixed-use destination comprising a boutique hotel and other uses including residential, later living, leisure, retail, galleries, restaurants, hotels, holiday accommodation, offices, venues and sport. There are several tenancies providing rental income alongside ad hoc rental income from police training and filmmaking.
Historic England’s Heritage Investment Prospectus showcases historic sites and buildings across England where owners are actively seeking investment partners or buyers right now. Historic England is ready to work with investors to realise the potential of these unique opportunities and to bring forward sustainable regeneration.
