Exeter's oldest building 'at risk'

There are 1,348 heritage sites at risk in the South West of England. That's according to Historic England, which has revealed the figures in its annual snapshot of the health of England’s valued historic buildings and places. The Heritage at Risk Register helps to ensure these places can be protected and continue to be enjoyed in the future.

The Heritage at Risk Register 2024 reveals that in the South West, the following are at risk of neglect, decay or inappropriate change: 215 buildings or structures (Grade I and II* listed buildings and structural scheduled monuments across England); 158 places of worship; 941 archaeology entries (non-structural scheduled monuments); 16 parks and gardens and 18 conservation areas.

Heritage brings local communities together, inspires creativity and boosts economic growth. The latest research shows that the heritage sector in the South West contributes £3.6 billion to the economy and employs 47,000 people annually (2022). In 2023, heritage tourism generated £2.5 billion in spend in the South West.

Historic England works closely with partners and communities across the country to breathe new life into the places that need it most. This year alone, 30 sites have been rescued and their futures secured in the South West.

Historic England awarded £1.58 million in grants for repairs to 94 sites in the South West during 2023/2024. Many buildings and sites have been rescued with the help and commitment of local people, communities, charities, owners and funders, including The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

There are also buildings and places that need help. Over the past year, 31 historic buildings and sites have been added to the Register in the South West because they are at risk of neglect, decay or inappropriate development.

Heritage Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “The UK has an abundance of heritage sites across the country that attract tourists and provide jobs in local communities. Many of these are in desperate need of support.

“The Heritage at Risk Register plays a vital role in our ongoing mission to protect and preserve our rich heritage across the country. Many beloved sites have been removed from the list this year and I hope that more will be saved thanks to their inclusion this year."

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England said: “Heritage is so important to the South West. It plays a vital role in our society and boosts the regional economy.

"This year, we have seen partners and communities come together to help save the historic buildings and places that need it the most. It’s inspirational to see how we can harness the power of our heritage to benefit local people across the South West. Together, we can save our places and find new ways to enjoy the heritage that people value so much.”

BUILDINGS AND SITESACROSS THE SOUTH WEST SAVED INCLUDE:

SAVED: Bat’s Castle and Black Ball Camp, Exmoor National Park (Scheduled Monuments)

Two of Exmoor’s spectacular Iron Age hillforts are revealed again and free of damaging scrub growth. Bat’s Castle and Black Ball Camp are situated high on Gallox Hill overlooking the Bristol Channel.

Just 500 metres apart, they are also visible from at least three other prehistoric defensive sites in the area, indicating their strategic importance to the communities who lived in this landscape during the Iron Age. The hillforts are easily accessible from the historic village of Dunster, and part of the rich heritage so vital to this part of Exmoor and its visitor economy.

In recent years, invasive tree, scrub and bracken growth has threatened the below-ground archaeology of both sites and prevented them from being understood and appreciated by locals and visitors alike. The Dunster Estate in consultation with Natural England, Historic England and the Forestry Commission has cleared the damaging vegetation on the hillforts to better reveal the monuments.

Selective removal of invasive trees on and around the hillforts while preserving veteran and character trees was carried out while removing much of the coniferous woodland planted in the 1950s in the gardens of Dunster Castle, a Grade II* Registered Park and Garden. A Parkland Management Plan is in place and the Estate, working with the farm tenant, will be carrying out further works through a Natural England-approved Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship Scheme to further restore and enhance this historic environment for all that visit.

Nicholas Kelly, Dunster Estate Manager, said: “Since the Dunster Estate was acquired by MHPF (UK) Ltd in 2017 it has sought to progressively enhance the estate for the benefit of those who visit, live, and work here. Working collaboratively with stakeholders and our farming community, the Dunster Estate will continue to enhance the natural, historic, social and built environment as an asset for everyone.”

SITES ADDED TO THE REGISTERACROSS THE SOUTH WEST IN 2024 AND AT RISK INCLUDE:

AT RISK: St Nicholas Priory, Exeter ( Grade I Listed, Scheduled Monument)

The roof of Exeter’s oldest building, a medieval priory turned Tudor townhouse, needs urgent repairs. Founded in 1087 under the influence of William the Conqueror, St Nicholas’ Priory was originally a Benedictine monastery in the heart of the medieval city.

After being partially demolished in 1536, the remaining structures were repurposed into a fashionable Tudor townhouse. The Tudor parlour retains its original plaster ceiling, and on the floor above is a bedchamber containing an impressive 15th century timber roof.

The oldest part of the priory is a stone vault little changed since the 11th century. The Exeter Historic Buildings Trust (EHBT) now manages the Priory as a popular visitor attraction and events venue in city centre, supported by a team of volunteers. In recent years the condition of the roof has deteriorated.

No longer water-tight, the ancient interior of the building is now at risk of permanent damage, not least the wall paintings in the great hall which date back to the reign of Elizabeth I.

James Clark, EHBT Chair, said: “St Nicholas Priory bears witness to more than 900 years of Exeter’s history. From its red Heavitree stone exterior walls to the fine panelling, painting and vaulting inside, the fabric traces the changing fortunes of Devon’s capital city.

"Today it offers our community an entry point both to past heritage and to the present artistic and cultural life in this vibrant city. Our priority is to preserve it for generations to come.”

Historic England has dedicated toolkits on its website for Heritage at Risk and Caring for Heritage and provides expert advice to owners, local authorities and communities. It also works creatively with owners and communities to deliver new visions for how these historic places can be used again and can provide grant aid. Historic England supports communities to come together, connecting interested parties to raise awareness and additional funds.