The register lists historic buildings and sites that are at risk of loss through neglect, decay or development, or are vulnerable to becoming so.
It aims to bring focus to places ‘in greatest need’ and Historic England is working with other organisations, and owners of the sites, to save them.
Most of the sites at risk in our local area can be seen pictured below, in addition to Hastings Town Centre, a Conservation Area in ‘poor’ condition, and a Romano-British iron working site in Beauport Park, Battle which, according to the register, has ‘extensive significant problems’ with its condition.
All information provided by Historic England.
For more information, visit: historicengland.org.uk/advice/heritage-at-risk/
5. Austin Friars Chapel, Conduit Hill, Rye - Condition: Poor
Remains of an Augustinian friary chapel dating from the 1380s. The chapel building underwent alteration in the early C20. The window tracery is suffering from decay and the roof was leaking. Repairs to the roof and damp proofing were completed with funding from Historic England. Photo: JPI
6. Ruins of the former friary church, Friars Road, Winchelsea, Icklesham - Condition: Poor
Extensive ruins to full wall height of a monastic church c1310-20, now in the grounds of a C19 mansion. Ruins have significant plant growth with decay to stonework. In 2016 a quinquennial survey was carried out and recommended various conservation works. At that time discussions took place with the owners regarding a programme of conservation works and maintenance however nothing has progressed. Since, damage from animal burrowing has occured which is causing significant damage to the buried remains, requiring immidate attention to control. Photo: JPI
7. Martello Tower No. 28, Rye Harbour, Icklesham - Condition: Very bad
Martello tower built 1806. Situated on the edge of a caravan park. The preservation of archaeological and historical significance will be the main consideration in assessing the suitability of proposals to convert Martello towers for residential use. Historic England is working with the owner of the site to try and achieve a sustainable solution to the long-term conservation of the Martello. Photo: Google Street View
8. Pelham Arcade, 1-12 and 12A, Pelham Place, Hastings - Condition: Poor
Semi-subterranean arcade of shops, developed as the first part of the Pelham scheme by Joseph Kay in 1823-5. Poor drainage from the carriage drive above the Arcade and structural failures in its formerly glazed lantern have resulted in problems of damp, particularly to the rear. Investigation work to inform the road repairs, funded jointly by Historic England and Hastings Borough Council, were completed in 2021. Historic England and Hastings Borough Council continue to explore funding opportunities to support the package of repairs to the road and the arcade of shops below. Photo: Google Street View