Major safety upgrades for Grade-II waterside building approved

Fire safety failings at a historic quayside warehouse have forced a major overhaul of Fareham Marina, with plans approved to make a Grade II-listed building fireproof.

The Old Mill at Lower Quay was found to have dangerously substandard walls, ceilings, and wiring, with exposed live cables discovered next to water pipes and no fire lobbies to give people time to escape in an emergency.

A fire risk assessment concluded the building was unsafe and unfit for occupation in the event of a blaze, prompting a reconstruction of internal walls and ceilings to meet modern regulations.

Work to improve the building began in 2024, and now Fareham Marina Ltd has been given the green light to continue improvements.

The company, which manages the warehouse, moorings and adjacent car park, said that preserving the listed building is essential if the business – and wider waterfront – is to remain viable.

An application was submitted to Fareham Borough Council in June for a new package of upgrades, including a reworked staircase and fire‑proofed walls, extra glazing, and glass barriers at upper‑floor doors. The works were approved on July 17.

In the application, a spokesperson for Fareham Marina said: “The company aims to continue with essential repairs to protect the charm of this historic structure while avoiding any significant changes to the building’s fabric.

“This renovation is vital to uphold the ongoing integrity of ‘The Old Mill’.”

The works include new protected lobbies with a 60‑minute fire rating, upgraded fire‑resistant walls and ceilings, and improved insulation throughout the 19th‑century warehouse.

The marina operators said the changes are essential to protect tenants, visitors, and directors from the risk of prosecution if a fire breaks out in the mixed‑use building, which houses a café, offices, and planned temporary accommodation.

The plans also aim to resolve long‑running damp and heating problems by adding secondary glazing to the old metal windows and fitting lightweight polycarbonate panels in front of sliding doors.

The steep staircases will be reshaped with paddle‑style treads and non‑slip edging so people can get a proper footing while keeping the original look.

The owners said the overall package will “future‑proof” the Old Mill by making it safer and more energy‑efficient, while keeping the marina, café, and waterfront venue in use

Renovation work has been ongoing since January 2024 and has so far played a “crucial role” in revitalising businesses along the quayside.