Council seeks clarity from Government over small-boat operations in Gosport

Gosport Borough Council is seeking assurances from the Government over the potential future use of Gosport and Fort Blockhouse for small-boat operations.

The council has written again to the Minister for Border Security and Asylum after receiving a response to concerns it raised following recent incidents in the area.

The Home Office has confirmed that it does not intend to establish Portsmouth as a routine or designated location for small-boat disembarkations and that revised contingency arrangements have been introduced following the disruption at Eastney. However, the council says the response does not specifically clarify the position for Gosport or Fort Blockhouse.

Councillor Zoe Huggins, Leader of Gosport Borough Council, said: “We recognise that protecting life at sea must always come first, and that emergency situations can develop quickly.

“However, we need greater clarity about the Government’s plans for Gosport and Fort Blockhouse. Our position is clear that Gosport is not suitable as a routine or planned location for small-boat disembarkations or initial processing.

“We have asked the Government to provide clear answers about whether Gosport or Fort Blockhouse remains under consideration, how potential sites are assessed, and how local authorities and emergency services will be kept informed. The response was disappointing, as it appears that in the Minister's statement, she only refers to Portsmouth. I believe this shows a lack of understanding of where Gosport is located and its constraints. 

“We want to work constructively with the Government and our local partners so that there are clear arrangements in place, and the particular circumstances of Gosport are properly understood.”

The council is also seeking further information about the operational response to events on 22 September and 4 October, the resources and costs involved, and the Government's revised contingency arrangements. It has asked for a formal communications and engagement protocol between the Home Office, Border Force, the council and relevant emergency and maritime authorities. 

The council has also written to Gosport MP Dame Caroline Dinenage asking for her continued support in seeking answers from the Government.