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Ancient monuments and war memorials
There are currently 41 Scheduled Ancient Monuments in East Cambridgeshire.
The full schedule is held and maintained by Historic England and enquiries about specific sites should be made to them directly.
If you are intending to carry out any works that will affect a scheduled monument, either above or below ground, you must apply to the Secretary of State for Scheduled Monument Consent, prior to any works being undertaken. Works are defined in the 1979 Act as being:
- any works resulting in the demolition or destruction of or any damage to a scheduled monument
- any works for the purpose of removing or repairing a scheduled monument or any part of it or of making any alterations or additions thereto
- any flooding or tipping operations on land in, on or under which there is a scheduled monument
It is advisable to contact English Heritage when considering any works that may affect a scheduled monument.
War memorials can range from entire buildings and structures to simple plaques on a wall. The majority are monuments or structures and are most commonly found in town centres, parks, churchyards and public spaces.
Most war memorials have plaques or inscriptions listing the names of those who died in battle, although some may be dedicated to a specific battle or regiment.
War memorials
There are a wide range of war memorials within East Cambridgeshire:
Document
Several of the memorials within the district are afforded statutory protection as they appear on the National Heritage List for England:
- The Almonry Wall, Ely
- Carter Street, Fordham
- Fair Green, Reach
- High Street, Soham
- Church Street, Stetchworth
- St Mary’s Church, Swaffham Prior
- High Street, Wicken
Further information on individual memorials can be found on the UK National Inventory of War Memorials website.
Works to war memorials
Custodianship of war memorials varies throughout the UK, as they were often erected as a result of public subscription. A diocese, parochial council or parish council now maintains the vast majority of memorials. As with any building or structure of architectural or historic significance, regular repairs and maintenance should be undertaken to ensure its long-term preservation.
The War Memorials Trust is a useful resource for anyone interested in or responsible for memorials in the UK. They can also assist with enquiries relating to specific memorials and family history research projects. They have produced several guidance documents that should provide a starting point for anyone planning works to a memorial.
War Memorials Trust: Advice on maintenance of war memorial
War Memorials Trust: Looking after your war memorial
If the memorial is listed, some works may require Listed Building Consent. It is advisable to check with the conservation officer prior to undertaking any works.
If you have a question or concern about any of the memorials within the district you can contact our conservation officer.