Publications
Secret Tunnels of South Heighton, by Geoffrey Ellis, published 1997 in Sussex Industrial History (issue no. 27, article, pp.30-33, ISSN: 0263-5151) accessible at: The Keep [LIB/506527] Download PDF
Abstract:The abandoned tunnels of HMS Forward, Royal Naval Headquarters, Newhaven, 1941-45.
Deep beneath Heighton Hill, one mile north of Newhaven, lay the forgotten remains of a once vibrant maritime intelligence centre which remained undetected by the foe during World War 11, and unrenowned by the country thereafter. Only recently has it been realised just how secret this establishment was, and how important its contribution to the war effort must have been.
Deep beneath Heighton Hill, one mile north of Newhaven, lay the forgotten remains of a once vibrant maritime intelligence centre which remained undetected by the foe during World War 11, and unrenowned by the country thereafter. Only recently has it been realised just how secret this establishment was, and how important its contribution to the war effort must have been.
Construction of the Secret Tunnels of South Heighton, by Geoffrey Ellis, published 1998 in Sussex Industrial History (issue no. 28, article, pp.12-18, ISSN: 0263-5151) accessible at: The Keep [LIB/506527] Download PDF
Abstract:In a previous article (SIH 27 - 1997) the existence, raison d'être, operation and history of H.M.S. Forward, the Royal Naval Headquarters at Newhaven (1941-45) was revealed. Following the cessation of hostilities the establishment was closed down, and all visible military customisation of the Guinness Trust Holiday Home building was removed before the property was handed back to the Guinness Trust. However, the labyrinth of tunnels was not secured at the western entrance, and consequently much looting of the tunnel contents occurred. Nonetheless, the tunnels were officially considered 'secret' for the customary thirty years after the war.