Historic England has ignited a firestorm of controversy by refusing to grant protected status to the secret training pool used by the legendary Cockleshell Heroes, clearing the path for its potential demolition.
The Southsea facility in Portsmouth served as the clandestine training ground for one of World War Two's most audacious missions - Operation Frankton in 1942. Ten Royal Marines, who would become known as the Cockleshell Heroes, trained here before their near-suicidal canoe raid on Nazi-occupied Bordeaux.
The Daring Raid That Made History
Under cover of darkness, these brave commandos paddled 70 miles up the Gironde estuary to plant mines on German cargo ships. Only two men survived the mission, but their success damaged or destroyed five vessels and provided a massive morale boost to Britain's war effort.
Now, the very pool where they perfected their techniques faces being erased from history. The current owners, Portsmouth City Council, have confirmed the site's uncertain future, stating the pool is "surplus to requirements" and exploring redevelopment options.
Local Outrage and Historical Significance
Local residents and historians have expressed profound disappointment at Historic England's decision. The government heritage body acknowledged the site's "strong historical interest" but concluded it didn't meet the high bar for national protection.
Campaigners argue this dismissal overlooks the pool's unique significance. "This isn't just any swimming pool," explains local historian Michael Brown. "This is where ordinary men trained to do extraordinary things that changed the course of the war."
A Battle for Britain's Military Heritage
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between urban development and heritage preservation. With the pool's future now in jeopardy, campaigners are exploring alternative protection methods through the local council's planning system.
As Portsmouth councillor George Fielding noted: "We must remember that places like this aren't just concrete and water - they're living monuments to the courage that defines our national story." The fight to save this piece of British military history continues, with supporters determined to ensure the Cockleshell Heroes' legacy isn't washed away by progress.
