The Pembroke Town Walls Trust has marked a significant year of achievements in heritage skills development and community engagement, all aimed at preserving the historic medieval walls of Pembroke. The Trust’s initiatives have not only enhanced local heritage awareness but also fostered hands-on conservation efforts that resonate with community members.
Key Achievements in Heritage Training
Among the Trust’s notable successes is the Intermediary Stone Masonry Course, which saw full bookings and an oversubscribed enrollment. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a strong interest in heritage skills across diverse demographics, including an even gender split. This response has attracted interest from respected heritage partners, providing robust evidence for future funding applications.
In addition to the masonry course, the Trust is expanding its educational offerings with two fully funded training opportunities in Spring 2024. The first, Free Heritage Impact Assessment Training, is a one-day professional course tailored for heritage consultants, planners, and conservation officers. It aims to enhance participants’ skills in evaluating and managing historic assets. The second course, Listed Building Consent: A Step-by-Step Guide, is designed to assist current and prospective listed building owners in navigating the consent process and understanding their responsibilities.
Community Engagement and Future Prospects
Community enthusiasm for the Trust’s initiatives continues to grow. Recent polling indicates a strong public desire for more wall restoration projects and an increase in heritage-related activities. Engagement on social media platforms has also surged, with significant growth in reach, impressions, and followers over the past year. This momentum has opened new avenues for partnership and funding opportunities.
At the recent PAVS Funding Fair, the Heritage Lottery Fund encouraged the Trust to submit an Expression of Interest. This interaction strengthens the Trust’s prospects for future conservation and community projects, highlighting the increasing recognition of its efforts.
The contributions of the Trust’s volunteers and supporters have been instrumental in these achievements. From leading guided walks to participating in stone-moving sessions, community involvement remains central to the Trust’s mission. The dedication shown by volunteers is celebrated and acknowledged as a vital part of safeguarding Pembroke’s historical legacy.
As the Trust looks to the future, it remains committed to enhancing its educational programs and expanding community engagement, ensuring that Pembroke’s medieval walls are preserved for generations to come. The collective efforts of the Trust, its partners, and the local community exemplify a model of successful heritage conservation.
