The Slaughterhouse

Once used for butchering meat for the Royal Navy,
and retaining key historical features and associations, it stands as a reminder of Gosport’s rich industrial and maritime heritage.

Now, we’re working to breathe new life into this space.

The Slaughterhouse at Royal Clarence Yard, built between 1854 and 1855, originally served as a key facility for the Royal Navy's victualling operations in its function of receiving and butchering animals for transportation and consmption on naval vessels. The building, featuring Italianate design with brick and Portland stone elements, remained an essential part of naval logistics until the yard's closure in 1970. Following brief reopenings during the Falklands War and conflicts in the 1990s, it was eventually disposed of by the MoD in 1998, with Berkeley Homes redeveloping the area into what is now known as Royal Clarence Marina.

Despite a restoration in 2012, the Slaughterhouse has struggled to find a long-term, fitting role, remaining largely underused. Whilst initially identified as suitable for a leisure or restaurant function, these were not fully realised, in part due to its complex construction and fitting-out requirements. Today, the Slaughterhouse stands in need of a conservation and reuse strategy that both honours its historical value and provides a meaningful, sustainable future purpose; without this, it risks further neglect and deterioration.

Addressing local needs

Gosport faces high unemployment rates, especially among
its youth, along with a lack of affordable workspaces and
cultural facilities.

Our approach to the reuse of the Slaughterhouse seeks to provide a solution by offering flexible, low-cost studio and performance spaces to local and visiting artists, as well as theoretical and practical conservation activities.

In return, these artists and educators can deliver affordable community workshops and events, generating opportunities for creativity, skill development and engagement within the community.

Preserving heritage and creating opportunity

This project goes beyond merely saving the Slaughterhouse; it aims to transform it into a vibrant community hub where heritage, creativity, and opportunity intersect. By revitalising this historic building, we celebrate its naval legacy while creating a dynamic space that fosters local pride and innovation.

Through this revitalisation, we aspire to stimulate the local economy by supporting artists, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs. The Slaughterhouse will serve as a platform for skills training and job opportunities, empowering individuals to contribute to a sustainable future and ensuring the building becomes a catalyst for growth and lasting positive change in the community.

Meaningful repurposing

By combining these two functions under one roof, this initiative will not only actively preserve the building’s heritage through education and hands-on experience, but also provide the wider creative community - both local and from further afield - with the resources and opportunities to develop their craft, ultimately enriching Gosport's cultural and heritage landscape.

The Slaughterhouse will undergo careful conservation and adaptation to become a versatile multi-purpose venue. The expansive hall will host artistic performances, exhibitions, and artist residencies, while dedicated areas will serve as studios for artisans and craftspeople. In addition to these creative spaces, we aim to implement training programmes focused on traditional conservation skills.

Partnerships and collaboration

We’re engaging with organisations like Gosport Borough Council, Hampshire Cultural Trust, Arts Council England, and National Lottery Heritage Fund to ensure the success of this project.

Through partnerships and community input, we will develop programs that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people of Gosport.

First steps

The recent Friday 13th event for Heritage Open Days marked a significant first step in the rehabilitation of the Slaughterhouse. Attracting over 300 visitors, the day showcased local history, craftsmanship, and creativity, providing an engaging platform for community involvement. The success of interactive activities, demonstrations, and collaborative presentations highlighted the potential for the Slaughterhouse to serve as a vibrant community hub.

This event not only celebrated the building's rich heritage but also intended to foster a sense of stewardship among attendees, emphasising the importance of public input in shaping its future. As we move forward, these initial efforts will pave the way for the Slaughterhouse's transformation into a dynamic space that nurtures creative talent and enhances local culture.

Sustainability in action

By reusing existing buildings like the Slaughterhouse, we’re actively contributing to a more sustainable built environment.

Not only are we preserving cultural heritage, but we’re also minimising the environmental impact of demolition and new construction.

This project shows that any old or unused building has the potential to play a vital role in a sustainable future.

Want to learn more about our plans or get involved in this exciting project? We invite you to explore the space, share your thoughts, and help us shape the future of the Slaughterhouse.

Together, we can preserve Gosport’s heritage while creating opportunities for creativity, skill development, and community growth.