Work starts to rebuild Osborne View in Fareham after fire

The Osborne View in Hill Head, Fareham was destroyed in a blaze in February 2024, as the fire reached 330C at its core and flames stretched 10 feet tall.

Firefighters had to resort to bringing in water from the Solent to help battle the blaze at the seaside venue.

But the pub's owner, Hall and Woodhouse, has now started construction on a rebuild that will cost £6.5 million and will finish in time for summer 2026.

The fire at the Osborne View in February 2024. (Image: Uknip) This comes after the Dorset-based family brewer and pub company applied for and received planning permission to rebuild the Osborne View earlier this year.

READ MORE: Osborne View pub building is 'lost' after ferocious fire

The replacement four-storey pub and restaurant will include team member accommodation, reorganised car parking, and a garden terrace that leads directly to the beach.

Steve Young, general manager of The Osborne View, added: "It is exciting to see construction commencing on-site, marking the start of The Osborne View’s rebuild.

"We are thrilled to be delivering an enhanced pub for the community.

"The Osborne is deeply missed by our locals, and I can’t wait to welcome guests back next summer."

The cause of the fire that destroyed the pub was confirmed to be as an electrical fault in a tumble dryer at the building.

A spokesperson from Hall and Woodhouse said that the new Osborne View will also incorporate industry-leading sustainability measures.

This will be achieved by constructing the building out of highly efficient fabric to reduce energy consumption and will feature PV solar panels on the roof.

READ MORE: Osborne View pub set to be transformed, 3D images show

LED lighting and timer controls, waterless urinals and other water reduction measures, as well as ambient cellar cooling, are also in place to ensure the energy efficiency of the site.

A CGI mock-up of the Osborne View currently under construction. (Image: Hall and Woodhouse) Mark James, property director at Hall and Woodhouse, said: "Breaking ground at the Osborne View represents a major milestone in our commitment to rebuilding this much-loved pub, and returning a valued asset to the heart of the local community.

"We’re creating a new and improved version of the former Osborne View, while still honouring the pub’s heritage and its stunning location.

"The new, purpose-built building aims to appeal to both current and future generations of guests, and offers improved operational efficiencies, accessibility and increased flexibility - making it the perfect spot for morning coffee right through to sunset dinner and drinks."