English Heritage has resumed its first conservation projects since the UK was put in a national lockdown almost eight months ago.
Not only are English Heritage delighted to continue operations, but key hidden gems have been discovered, which were previously buried away from both guests and historians.
With direct links to the iconic Battle of Hastings, Pevensey Castle is a leading project currently in English Heritage’s post-lockdown pipeline. Conservationists have started to remove the extreme overgrown vegetation, which has revealed an incredible nine metre Roman bastion and a garderobe (outside toilet) which experts believe dates back to 800 years ago.
Pevensey Castle dates back to 290 AD English HeritageEnglish Heritage has stated that most of their historians knew what was lying under the overgrown greenery through historical documentation, but the project means history buffs and visitors are able to see the compelling artefacts for the first time. The Roman wall and garderobe are set to be focal points when the historic site’s conservation process is completed.Speaking to English Heritage, Roy Porter Senior Properties Curator for the charity said: “It’s extremely good news that English Heritage has been able to resume conservation projects at our sites. Although it’s not the most glamorous work, tackling overgrown vegetation in absolutely vital in allowing us to protect the historic sites in our care.
Porter added: “It is a time-consuming and laborious process requiring specialist skills to work on structures nearly two thousand years old, and we’re extremely grateful to our members and visitors whose support funds these essential works.
“Crucially, each conservation project we do, we learn more about the amazing places entrusted to us, enhancing our understanding of their stories and enabling us to bring that to life for our visitors.”
In other heritage news, The National Trust has revealed plans to cut 1200 jobs.
