Historic Group Update

Not much work has been done on the Google map but it is an ongoing project to plot all the historic buildings in the town.  It is proving quite difficult to accurately identify some of the locations of demolished buildings. When a little more progress has been made, we will put a link on the website.

We have added our voice to those of many other local organisations and interested parties, who wish to ensure the preservation of the old cemetery chapel in Victoria Road. and have put forward constructive suggestions to the Council for its future use. It would appear that for the time being the Council has decided not to demolish it but is looking at alternative uses for it.

The Tumbledown Dick on the Farnborough Road is a building at risk as it is now boarded up and a considerable amount of damage has been caused to the roof which allows the ingress of water. The building itself, although not listed, dates from about 1811, and is of great importance in historic terms. It hosted many celebratory events as well as being the home of the Manorial Courts for a period of time. It is believed that there has been an inn on the site since the 17th century, and possibly earlier.

The Queens Head Cove has been demolished but it has been established that the site is of great archaelogical interest because of it proximity to local pottery sites. The Planning permission which was granted for new housing has a condition that an archaelogical survey be undertaken before work commences.

There was a planning application on Alma Cottages in Cross Street, and we were able to submit details of its historic significance to the Council to help them with their deliberations.

Two historical events have been held, one being a village walk in October and more recently a talk on local history at the College of Technology. 

More events are planned for the future, the next one being a tour of St Michael’s Abbey on 18 April, commencing at 10.15.