A look at England’s most threatened historic buildings

This year, 328 new locations have been added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk register, whilst 387 were removed. The varied list contains 5,254 entries, ranging from rock sculptures to bars, to wrecks, to stables. Most are Grade I and II* listed and would require significant investment to salvage from neglect and the effects of time. We have a look at some notable structures added this year.

The Royal Pavilion Garden

Surrounding the distinctive Royal Pavilion, the garden, designed by John Nash as a seaside retreat for the future King George VI from 1815, has been added to the register this year. In fact, the problem is quite the opposite of neglect, and the gardens are now so popular with visitors that Historic England considers it at risk of losing its’ original character due to the installation of unsightly fencing, signage, lighting and rubbish bins.

Trevethy Quiot

One of the most recognisable archaeological monuments in Cornwall, Trevethy Quiot is a splendid example of a Neolithic ‘dolmen’ tomb and originates from between 3700-3500 BC. It stands 2.7m high and is Grade II* listed. This structure has been added to the list due to erosion caused by livestock and damage to the field by fencing.

Church of St George the Martyr

Alternatively named “Little Dorrit’s Church” due to its repeated reference in Charles Dickens’ 1856 work, Little Dorrit, this church, located in Bermondsey, is currently in poor condition. The graveyard here served as a burial place for those imprisoned in Marshalsea prison next door, where Charles Dickens’ parents, John and Elizabeth, were imprisoned for debt for some years. It is also where the Doritt family are imprisoned in his book. Thankfully, the church recently received funds from the Heritage Lottery Fund in order to tackle the issue.