What's Happening?
Eastbridge Hospital, an 800-year-old almshouse and museum located on High Street in Canterbury, is in urgent need of more than £100,000 in grant funding to prevent it from collapsing into a nearby river.
The historic building, which has served various purposes since its construction in 1180, is currently at risk due to the undercroft, where pilgrims once slept, moving towards the river. Louise Knight, the clerk and receiver for the Eastbridge Hospital charity, has stated that the cost of repairs is beyond the charity's means. The charity is collaborating with archaeologists to address the damage and is exploring grant funding options while also planning a fundraising appeal. The building, which has been closed to the public for almost a year due to safety concerns, is awaiting the outcome of an application to be added to the Historic England heritage at risk register.
Why It's Important?
The potential collapse of Eastbridge Hospital would represent a significant loss of cultural and historical heritage. As a Grade I listed building, it holds immense historical value, having served as accommodation for pilgrims visiting the tomb of Thomas Becket and later as a schoolroom and almshouse. The building's preservation is crucial not only for maintaining the historical fabric of Canterbury but also for educational and tourism purposes. The financial challenges faced by the charity highlight the broader issue of funding for the preservation of historic sites, which often rely on public and private support. The situation underscores the importance of heritage conservation and the need for sustainable funding mechanisms to protect such sites for future generations.
What's Next?
The charity managing Eastbridge Hospital is actively seeking grant funding and preparing to launch a public fundraising campaign to gather the necessary resources for repairs. The outcome of their application to the Historic England heritage at risk register will be pivotal, as inclusion could open up additional funding opportunities. Meanwhile, the charity aims to raise public awareness about the building's plight to garner support. If successful, these efforts could not only secure the building's future but also serve as a model for other heritage sites facing similar challenges. The situation may prompt discussions among policymakers and heritage organizations about the need for more robust support systems for historic preservation.
