Concern over abbey splitting from Battle

English Heritage wants to set up a Battle Abbey explanatory committee to inform the town what it is doing and any future plans.

But Battle Town councillors were concerned this would mean less interaction and cooperation with the abbey as it would seemingly replace the Battle Abbey advisory committee.

County and district cllr Kathryn Field said she was unhappy and very worried as it seemed like English Heritage are no longer interested in what the town does.

“The latest communication indicates they want to be a separate entity but invite member to hear what they are going to do with no room for discussion,” cllr Paula Fisher said.

“It seems they are drawing back and getting on with their thing.

“It would be a bit different if they were out of the town but its right in the middle and what they do effects the town.

“Just to be told what they are going to do is not satisfactory.”

Chairman Margaret Kiloh said she wants the town and the abbey to be together a bit more but that may be impossible to achieve.

Councillors decided to adopt and register a logo for the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings.

The logo will be separate to the council’s but will be used on commemorative memorabilia and posters celebrating the anniversary next year.

Councillors were concerned about potential copyright fines and most wanted to register it if it was adopted unless the cost was unjustified.

Cllr Glenna Favell was applauded for coming up with the proposal for a writing competition to mark the 950th anniversary.

Town councillors unanimously agreed to the competition, which would be offered to school children of all ages and cllr Favell hoped the competition could even go on every year until 2066.

Cllrs Jill Gyngell and David Furness welcomed the proposal to work with Battle Festival to deliver the contest and cllr Kiloh volunteered to donate one of the trophies.

And Agrifactors were chosen as the contractors to extend the cemetary as it was the only acceptable tender, according to cllr Kiloh.

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