Could a £3M Party Island Rise from a Derelict Fortress?

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Transforming Thorne Island: A Restoration Journey

Many dream of taking on a renovation project, something to transform and make your own. For one former software company CEO, the opportunity to revive a derelict 19th Century Napoleonic fort presented challenges beyond imagination. Mike Conner, 52, purchased Thorne Island near Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire for £555,000 in May 2017. Originally known for its vibrant parties under previous ownership, the fort sat abandoned for 17 years, requiring a year of intense restoration to reach a habitable state. Today, equipped with 40 beds, four en-suite bathrooms, and its own nightclub, this historic building is back on the market for £3 million.

"Many have described it as a midlife crisis," Mr. Conner joked. "I really didn't know what I was getting myself into." The fort was constructed in the 1850s to safeguard the busy port of Milford Haven from potential French naval attacks. In 1947, it transitioned into a hotel, serving as a venue for birthday parties, weddings, and stag dos, before being sold in 1999. When acquired by the Von Essen hotel group in 2001, plans for a £4 million renovation, including a cable car for mainland access, were initiated, but these dreams were largely abandoned.

The Challenges of Renovation

Upon purchasing the listed property, Mr. Conner faced a daunting task. The once-bustling party island had succumbed to neglect, with no electricity or running water. "There was no electric, no water, and any food or waste needed to come back off," he recounted. His wife was understandably apprehensive about the purchase, stating she'd only visit once there was a flushing loo, which seemed reasonable given the circumstances. However, the first flush required cutting through 16 feet (5 meters) of rock to reach the biodigester pump, ultimately costing him £200,000.

“Wales has some absolutely fabulous historic buildings that are in really sad states,” said Mr. Conner. The entire renovation process took nearly five years, with six men living on the island for about four years while the work progressed. Transporting equipment was a Herculean effort, often requiring helicopter lifts due to the island's remote location. "Getting materials was extremely difficult, and it was a challenge for those who agreed to work on the project and live on-site," he explained.

A Unique Living Experience

Most of the project workers would spend stints of about two weeks on the island, enduring conditions that were less than luxurious. "They would charge their phones with a generator and had to take dips in the sea to wash. It was tough living," Mr. Conner shared. Despite these challenges, the camaraderie built among the crew was invaluable. "Most people who joined the project, I still work with now," he said. “You just couldn't predict how many people wanted to help you.”

Mr. Conner, who trained as a design and technology teacher, found the design process to be the most exhilarating aspect of the renovation. “I couldn't believe the Victorians could build something so magnificent,” he expressed, which fueled his motivation to persevere. He likened the construction process to that of Stonehenge, noting that “a thousand men were working on it for two years.” His vision was to modernize the fort while paying homage to its storied past. “It almost feels like a tribute to their hard work, and you're really just building the last little bit on top of what was already an awesome, bomb-proof construction.”

The Island's Rich History

Thorne Island, with its unique history, has served various purposes over the years. From hosting 80-person parties to providing tranquil retreats, its versatility is remarkable. The island even hosted a festival for Mr. Conner’s 50th birthday, featuring a tight-rope performer traversing the picturesque courtyard. “People who come for a weekend are surprised when I hand them a bin liner and say it needs to come back off with them - but no one comes here to collect the bins,” he noted, highlighting the island's self-sufficient nature.

As a former CEO, Mr. Conner described his time on the island as "incredible," allowing him to escape the rigors of a structured routine. “We all often live by a calendar of scheduled meetings, but the island is the complete opposite - it's off-grid. It feels real time, it feels like living.” The timeless nature of the island allows visitors to disconnect, with many choosing to put their phones away, fostering a sense of presence and community.

The Personal Connection

Originally from Gloucestershire, Mr. Conner does not live on the island but spent considerable time there as the primary contractor during the renovation. He juggled running his software company alongside this monumental venture, ultimately selling the business two years ago. “It was quite cathartic for me to have this parallel life of complete chaos, which particularly through Covid was quite awesome,” he reflected.

The project also revealed surprising personal heritage for Mr. Conner. Upon acquiring the keys, he discovered he is a quarter Welsh, with his mother having grown up at Upton Castle, Pembroke Dock. This connection added a layer of emotional significance to the renovation, making him feel even more invested in the future of Thorne Island.

Future Prospects for Thorne Island

Looking ahead, Mr. Conner hopes the next owner cherishes the island as much as he has. He envisions its potential to operate as a tourist attraction or to host “the most unbelievable raves.” With an estimated capacity to accommodate about 800 guests, he believes it could offer an “unbelievable 24-hour experience." “If it was generating revenue and creating jobs, that would be a great outcome,” he expressed, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and community development.

Mr. Conner also advocates for increased awareness about Wales’ rich history and the potential of its historic buildings. “It's a blank canvas, and the next owner can work out what it's for,” he said, underscoring the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for Thorne Island. “But if there are any events there, I would crawl over broken glass to get there,” he added with enthusiasm.

FAQs About Thorne Island

What was Thorne Island originally built for?

Thorne Island was originally constructed in the 1850s to protect the port of Milford Haven from French naval attacks. Over the years, it transformed into a hotel and event venue.

How long did the renovation of Thorne Island take?

The renovation process of Thorne Island took nearly five years, with dedicated crews living on-site for significant portions of that time to complete the project.

What amenities does Thorne Island currently offer?

Thorne Island now features 40 beds, four en-suite bathrooms, and a nightclub, making it a unique venue for events and gatherings.

What are the future plans for Thorne Island?

Mr. Conner hopes to see Thorne Island thrive under new ownership, potentially as a tourist attraction or event space, fostering community engagement and economic development.

Transforming a historic site like Thorne Island is no small feat, but the journey is filled with rich history, personal growth, and endless possibilities. As Mike Conner embarks on the next chapter of this remarkable place, what potential do you see for Thorne Island’s future? #ThorneIsland #HistoricRenovation #WalesAdventure

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