Scheduled Ancient Monument: MARTELLO TOWER 'M' (SF203)

1977: This is one of two within the recently closed HMS Ganges training establishment, once linked together by other C19 fortifications (parts of which are discernible in the accretion of modern naval training works but not worth scheduling). Tower 'M' is one of the smaller type with small moat. The exterior brickwork is quite good but has patches of cement rendering. Windows blocked. On top a huge water tower and tank almost twice the height of the tower. Interior : entrance to both stairways blocked up. One third of the first floor is of York paving over the magazine below; the rest is of rotten wood. 1981: Exterior brickwork cracking badly in some places and wall bulging to W. Cement screeding round top falling away. Some weeds and small shrubs growing on brickwork. Moat weed filled. 1985: Water tower still in use. Large crack in E side of wall of original Martello tower. Several generations of repairs to brickwork. Needs repointing and much more. Brambles, etc growing around top of towe.