Landmarks at risk of being lost
More threatened buildings placed on Heritage England watchlist as others saved
MORE than 50 crumbling landmarks in the Midlands have been added to Historic England’s ‘at risk’ register because of concerns about their condition.
Dudley Castle in the Black Country is one of the major landmarks added to the list while there is still concern over Birmingham’s Highbury Hall, the historic seat of the Chamberlain family.
The heritage body says some landmarks across the country are at risk of being lost forever as a result of neglect, decay or inappropriate development.
However, in the past year it has offered £2 million in grants to help save some of the region’s best loved and most important historic sites. Examples in the West Midlands include Snodhill Castle in Herefordshire and Edgar Tower in the shadow of Worcester Cathedral. Louise Brennan, regional director, Midlands said: “This year we’ve helped to save 38 places which have now come off the register – the result of both our work and of the determination of local communities, charities, owners and local authorities who want to see historic places restored and brought back to life.
“Heritage is important to region’s economic recovery renewal.
“Every building or place rescued from being at risk can help level up economic opportunity, support and protect skilled local construction jobs, build resilience in private and public organisations and boost tourism.
“People value their local heritage and sense of place. They have connected with it strongly during lockdown for the mental and physical benefits it brings, and we’re proud to play a part in securing our heritage for future generations.”
In total, there are 901 entries across the Midlands on the 2020 Heritage at Risk Register. the and