The Pembroke Town Walls Trust is celebrating a year filled with significant achievements in heritage skills development, community engagement, and practical conservation efforts. These initiatives have been instrumental in advancing the protection of Pembroke’s historic medieval walls.
One of the most notable accomplishments has been the successful completion of the Intermediary Stone Masonry Course. The course experienced high demand, being fully booked and even oversubscribed, and it received excellent feedback from participants. The course attracted a balanced mix of participants, showcasing an equal gender representation, and generated interest from respected heritage partners. This positive response provides a solid basis for future funding applications.
The Trust also undertook restoration efforts on a section of the town wall, offering the community a tangible representation of progress in preserving this important landmark.
Expanding Educational Opportunities
To further support community engagement, the Trust is broadening its educational offerings. This spring, it will provide two fully funded heritage training opportunities. The first, Free Heritage Impact Assessment Training, is a one-day professional course aimed at heritage consultants, planners, and conservation officers. This training is designed to enhance participants’ skills in evaluating and managing historic assets.
The second course, Listed Building Consent: A Step-by-Step Guide, is a practical one-day program that assists both current and prospective listed building owners in navigating the consent process and understanding their responsibilities.
Growing community enthusiasm for the Trust’s initiatives is evident. Recent polling indicates a strong public desire for increased wall restoration efforts, alongside more heritage-related content and hands-on activities.
Community Engagement and Future Prospects
Social media engagement has surged, with significant increases in reach, impressions, and followers over the past year. This momentum has opened new avenues for partnerships and funding opportunities. During discussions at the PAVS Funding Fair, representatives from the Heritage Lottery Fund encouraged the Trust to submit an Expression of Interest, further bolstering prospects for future conservation and community projects.
The Trust has also recognized the vital contributions of its volunteers and supporters. From guided walks to stone-moving sessions and participation in events, the community’s involvement remains central to the Trust’s achievements. As it reflects on the past year, the Pembroke Town Walls Trust is poised to continue its important work in safeguarding the town’s rich heritage.
