Historic Pevensey building awarded £21,120 grant for preservation works

The Mint House in High Street, is a listed timber-frame building opposite Pevensey Castle.

It was added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 2022 due to its poor condition.

The grant will aid the charity Friends of the Mint House with its mission to repair the building and create a sustainable future for it.

It will also fund a structural engineer’s report, conservation management plan and costed condition report.

The grant will fund preparatory work, including structural and condition reports and conservation management plans. These will provide the foundation for planned conservation and repair works, ensuring the building’s long-term preservation.

Councillor Ian Tysh, Alliance for Wealden (Green Party) and lead councillor for Planning and Environment, said, “The Mint House is a remarkable part of our district’s history, and this grant from Historic England is fantastic news.

"It means that works can be commenced to preserve the landmark which is loved by locals and visitors. It demonstrates what can be achieved when local communities, charities, and the council work together to protect our heritage. We look forward to seeing the building restored and enjoyed by generations to come.”

"Tom Foxall, Regional Director of Historic England said: “Together with the Friends of the Mint House, we’re building a clearer picture of this wonderful historic building, its construction, condition, and exactly what’s needed to repair it.

"The Friends have already brought the building back to life with fantastic live events and art installations celebrating Sussex folklore. We’re pleased to be able to support their next steps to rescue the structure by helping with access to the specialist conservation advice they need.

“To have new evidence that suggests the wood for the Mint House was felled while Henry VIII was on the throne is really exciting and keeps alive the tantalising possibility that the Mint House was made of reused timbers from Pevensey Castle, as local legend says.”