Lentney Gun Battery
Pre and post World War Two, up to the mid 1950's, Plymouth had extensive coastal defences. Their role was to protect the entrance to Plymouth Sound and ultimately Devonport Dockyard, located around 3.7 miles NW of Lentney Battery. A number of the military forts surrounding the area date back to the 17th century, some of which were upgraded in World War One and World War Two for use as coastal defence batteries or anti‐aircraft batteries.
What happened to Lentney Battery?
Between 1956 & 1958 coastal artillery was declared obsolete and the guns and equipment were sold for scrap. Several forts and batteries like Renney Battery were sold off by the MOD into private hands, most were neglected and others bulldozed out of all recognition.
RAF aerial photography from 1969 shows the gun emplacements and magazines were still in good condition at that time. Some ancillary buildings still survive in the area today. There is no sign of the 3 battery observation posts. The searchlights towards the coastline have been removed but the concrete emplacements are still visible...if you know where to look. Watch the short film. |
Lentney Battery Gallery
Lentney Battery Profile by Victorian Forts |