Northern Defences ‘transformed’ following clear up project

The King’s Lines have been the latest area to be cleared of litter as part of the government’s ongoing project in clearing out the Northern Defences.

After five years of clearing works, the area has received a “complete transformation following decades of neglect and abandonment”.

The Lines kept Gibraltar safe from a northern enemy assault and spanning over a series of hundreds of meters, these open terraces are connected by galleries carved into the Rock.

These allowed the safe and concealed movement of troops during perilous times.

The Kings and Queens Lines have been visited by tours organised by the Heritage Trust over the past few years.

The galleries within the Rock have been reopened and cleared to allow light to flood into the chamber.

These were adapted to be used as operational headquarters during World War Two.

Bastions such as Hesse’s demi Bastion and Hanover Battery, which took over Landport Bridge, have also been cleared.

The project was led by Carl Viagas on behalf of the Office of the Deputy Chief Minister.

Mr Viagas highlighted the logistical difficulties in managing the operations while being sensitive to the historical significance and environmental challenges.

The Deputy Chief Minister, Dr Joseph Garcia, said: “The government is delighted with the pace of the works and with the positive impact of this project.”

“We have uncovered genuine historical treasures in the network of fortifications and tunnels that have been uncovered and restored.”

Dr Garcia said he is “particularly grateful” to Mr Viagas who has steered this projected, to the Royal Engineers who continue to assist with the operations and also to the Heritage Trust who have organised tours for visitors to the area.