Northamptonshire war memorials get extra protection

Historic England has pledged to protect 2,500 memorials by 2018, marking the centenary of the end of the First World War.

It is doing this by ensuring that as many war memorials as possible receive listed status, thus providing legal protection for these monuments.

A listed war memorial is immediately protected by law, and any changes to it must first receive listed building consent.

Its details also become part of the public record.

Listing a war memorial does not mean changes or alterations cannot be made, but it ensures any changes or alterations respect the character of the war memorial and that the case for its preservation is fully taken into account when any redevelopment plans are considered.

Among those in the north of the county to have been listed in 2015 were:

Collyweston War Memorial

Duddington War Memorial

Irthlingborough Scouts War Memorial

Irthlingborough War Memorial

Raunds War Memorial

Stanwick War Memorial

Kettering Parish Church War Memorial

Stoke Albany War Memorial

A Historic England spokesman said: “Built by communities in the years following the conflict, these memorials are a poignant, physical reminder of the sacrifices and loss the First World War brought about.

“One hundred years on it is time to come together again to ensure our memorials are in good condition, and properly recognised by listed where appropriate.

“Historic England, together with War Memorials Trust, are offering advice and grants to help members of the public submit applications to have their local war memorials listed and repaired where necessary.”

Culture Secretary John Whittingdale, who leads for the Government on First World War commemorations, said: “Over a million Britons lost their lives in the First World War.

“It’s important that their sacrifice is not forgotten – and that the lessons learned during that time are as resonant now as they were then.

“The centenary programme aims to bring us together more closely as a nation to honour the lives and bravery of all those who served.

“War memorials are a valued part of our heritage and it is absolutely fitting that we cherish and preserve them for future generations.

“Whether we have relatives whose names are on local memorials, or who fought alongside those who died, we all have a connection with remembrance.

“I would urge everyone to make sure their local memorial is in good condition.

“If it isn’t, then Historic England, War Memorials Trust and the Heritage Lottery Fund all have grants and advice available.”

Director of Listing at Historic England Roger Bowdler said: “Researching, recording and recommending up to 2,500 more war memorials for listing over the next five years is a major task but one that Historic England is proud to undertake. “These memorials will gain a place on the National Heritage List for England to tell the story of this country’s sacrifice and struggle.”

For details on getting a memorial listed or repaired, or both, click here.