An Aldershot landmark, the British Infantry field gun, is set to have a new permanent home in the town.
The gun, which is a powerful symbol of the town's military heritage, has remained in storage since its removal during the regeneration works at Aldershot railway station, while options for its permanent location have been considered.
The Ordnance QF 25-pounder was the principal British and Commonwealth field gun-howitzer used during the Second World War. It has been fully restored while it was in storage and will soon be ready to be moved into its permanent location.
Now, Rushmoor Borough Council is consulting with residents on where its new home should be.
Four locations have been shortlisted following an initial assessment of potential sites around the town, taking into account factors such as visibility, land ownership, and accessibility.
The options
Option 1 – Outside the EBB Stadium (Aldershot Town FC)
This location would place the gun at one of the main gateways into the town and alongside a well-used community venue. It would be visible to visitors attending matches and other events at the stadium.
Option 2 - Outside Aldershot Railway Station
Returning the gun to its former location would reinstate a familiar landmark close to the station, where it stood between 1999 and 2022. This location provides high visibility for residents and visitors arriving in the town.
Option 3 – Bottom of Gun Hill
This location would position the gun at the foot of Gun Hill, opposite Aldershot Library. It would create a prominent feature within the public realm and strengthen the connection between the established town centre and the growing Wellesley community.
Option 4 – Princes Gardens
Princes Gardens occupies land that formed part of the first military camp in Aldershot and is recognised as a gateway between the military and civilian parts of the town. The site already contains several military memorials and statues, including the Airborne Soldier and Gurkha Warrior. Installation of the field gun in this location could impact the delivery of events held within the gardens (and might require the removal of a planted bed).
Option 5 – other suggestions
Other ideas from residents
The Leader of Rushmoor Borough Council, Councillor Gareth Williams, said:
"We are really keen to restore this important British infantry field gun to a new, permanent home, and we invite all of our residents to let us know where you think it should be.
"Following our successful hosting of Armed Forces Day National Event this year, we are committed to continuing to celebrate our heritage as a military town, which we want everyone to join us in being proud of."
Please visit our current consultations page to take part and to provide a view on the future location.
The results of the survey will help inform Rushmoor Borough Council's decision on the future location of the Aldershot Field Gun. Responses will be considered alongside other factors, including site suitability, heritage considerations, land ownership, installation and maintenance costs, and any planning or technical constraints. The final decision will be made by Rushmoor Borough Council after all consultation responses and these factors have been reviewed.
You can also view our consultation survey privacy notice.
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